Laughing Gull look-alikes

Key differences

Franklin's Gull is slightly smaller, has a shorter, finer bill, and in breeding plumage, shows a white trailing edge to the wing and a more extensive white crescent around the eye. Non-breeding Franklin's Gulls have a more restricted dark cap and often a pinkish wash on the underparts. Laughing Gulls lack the white trailing edge on the wing.

Key differences

Bonaparte's Gull is significantly smaller, has a much daintier bill, and in breeding plumage, has a black head but also a prominent white leading edge to the outer wing (a 'wedge' of white). Non-breeding Bonaparte's Gulls have a small dark spot behind the eye. Laughing Gulls are larger and lack the white wing wedge.

Key differences

Black-headed Gull (a rare vagrant in North America) has a chocolate-brown head (not black) in breeding plumage, red bill and legs, and a prominent white leading edge to the outer wing. Laughing Gulls have a black head, darker bill/legs, and lack the white leading edge.