Black-legged Kittiwake vs Common Gull

In short

The Black-legged Kittiwake and Common Gull can be distinguished by their leg color and wing patterns. The Kittiwake has black legs and a more distinct wing pattern with a solid black wingtip, while the Common Gull has yellowish-green legs and a less defined wingtip pattern.

Identification tips

1. Leg color: Black-legged Kittiwake has black legs, Common Gull has yellowish-green legs. 2. Wing pattern: Kittiwake has solid black wingtips, Common Gull has variable white spots. 3. Habitat: Look for Kittiwakes in coastal areas and Common Gulls in more varied habitats. 4. Size and structure: Common Gull is slightly larger and bulkier.

Size

Both species are medium-sized gulls, but the Common Gull is slightly larger with a bulkier build.

Plumage

The Black-legged Kittiwake has a clean white head and underparts with a solid black wingtip, while the Common Gull has a medium to pale gray mantle and often shows some white spots on the primaries.

Behaviour

Both species exhibit typical gull behaviors, but the Kittiwake is more often seen in coastal and pelagic environments, while the Common Gull is more adaptable to inland habitats.

Habitat

Black-legged Kittiwakes are primarily found in coastal and oceanic environments, whereas Common Gulls are more versatile, inhabiting both coastal and inland areas.

Voice

Vocalizations are not a primary distinguishing feature between these species in the field.