Breeding adult (American) © Simon Boivin eBird S58305520 Macaulay Library ML 169295191
Nonbreeding adult (American) © G & B
Third winter (American) © Evan Lipton
Third winter (American) © Evan Lipton
Second winter (American) © Chris Wood
+ 12
Second winter (American) © Alex Lamoreaux
Juvenile (American) © Evan Lipton
Breeding adult (American) © Jeremiah Trimble
Juvenile (American) © Louis Bevier
Nonbreeding adult (European) © Adrien Mauss
Second winter (European) © Anya Auerbach
Juvenile (European) © Adrien Mauss
Juvenile (European) © Adrien Mauss
Breeding adult (Vega) © Ian Davies
Juvenile (Vega) © Ian Davies
Habitat © Jay McGowan

Herring Gull Larus argentatus

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Identification

POWERED BY MERLIN

Common and widespread large gull found throughout the Northern Hemisphere. Adults have a fairly pale gray back, pale eye, and dull pinkish legs. Takes four years for immatures to progress from mostly brown to fully white and gray adult plumage; intermediate plumages are often mottled and messy. Extremely variable plumage is compounded by several different subspecies across range. Usually shows a dull pinkish base to the bill by the first winter, and develops a pale eye by the second winter. Some immature birds can fade to almost white, especially in their first or second summer, but they always show darker wingtips. Occurs inland and along the coast, frequenting fishing boats, beaches, lakes, and landfills. Often forms large flocks with other gulls.

POWERED BY MERLIN