Black-legged Kittiwake vs Pallas's Gull

In short

The Black-legged Kittiwake and Pallas's Gull can be distinguished primarily by their leg color and size. Black-legged Kittiwakes have black legs, while Pallas's Gulls have yellow legs. Additionally, Pallas's Gulls are significantly larger than Black-legged Kittiwakes.

Identification tips

• Leg Color: Black-legged Kittiwake has black legs; Pallas's Gull has yellow legs.
• Size: Pallas's Gull is larger.
• Head Color: In breeding plumage, Pallas's Gull has a black head, unlike the Black-legged Kittiwake.

Size

Pallas's Gull is significantly larger than the Black-legged Kittiwake.

Plumage

Black-legged Kittiwakes have a more delicate appearance with a white head and body, whereas Pallas's Gulls have a more robust build with a distinctive black head in breeding plumage.