Black-legged Kittiwake vs Slender-billed Gull

In short

The bill shape and color are key to distinguishing these species: the Black-legged Kittiwake has a short, yellow bill, while the Slender-billed Gull features a longer, more slender bill. Additionally, the Kittiwake's black legs contrast with the Slender-billed Gull's pale legs.

Identification tips

• Bill: Black-legged Kittiwake has a short, yellow bill; Slender-billed Gull has a longer, slender bill.
• Leg Color: Black-legged Kittiwake has black legs; Slender-billed Gull has pale legs.
• Wing Pattern: Look for the more uniform gray upperwing with black wingtips in the Kittiwake.

Plumage

The Black-legged Kittiwake typically has a more uniform gray upperwing with black wingtips, whereas the Slender-billed Gull may show a lighter gray with less distinct black wingtips.