Belcher's Gull vs Heermann's Gull

In short

Belcher's Gull and Heermann's Gull can be distinguished by their distinct plumage and bill coloration. Belcher's Gull has a striking black tail band and a yellow bill with a red spot, while Heermann's Gull is notable for its gray body and red bill with a black tip.

Identification tips

1. Look for the black tail band and yellow bill with a red spot on Belcher's Gull. 2. Note the gray body and red bill with a black tip on Heermann's Gull. 3. Consider the geographic location: Belcher's is found in South America, Heermann's in North America. 4. Observe the head color: Heermann's Gull has a white head during breeding, turning dusky in non-breeding season.

Size

Both species are similar in size, but Belcher's Gull tends to be slightly larger.

Plumage

Belcher's Gull has a white head and underparts with a black tail band, whereas Heermann's Gull is mostly gray with a white head during the breeding season. In non-breeding plumage, Heermann's Gull's head turns dusky.

Behaviour

Both species exhibit typical gull behaviors, but Heermann's Gull is more likely to be seen in large, noisy flocks, especially during breeding.

Habitat

Belcher's Gull is typically found along the Pacific coast of South America, while Heermann's Gull is more common along the Pacific coast of North America, particularly around the Gulf of California.

Voice

Vocalizations are not a primary distinguishing feature between these species, as both have typical gull calls.