Black-tailed Gull vs Heermann's Gull

In short

The Black-tailed Gull and Heermann's Gull can be distinguished by key plumage differences and geographic range. The Black-tailed Gull has a distinctive black tail band, while Heermann's Gull is known for its striking white head and gray body during breeding season. These gulls rarely overlap in range, with the Black-tailed Gull primarily found in East Asia and Heermann's Gull along the Pacific coast of North America.

Identification tips

1. Look for the black tail band on the Black-tailed Gull, absent in Heermann's Gull. 2. Note the white head and gray body of Heermann's Gull during breeding season. 3. Consider geographic location: Black-tailed Gulls are in East Asia, while Heermann's Gulls are along the Pacific coast of North America. 4. Observe leg color: Black-tailed Gulls have yellow legs, whereas Heermann's Gulls have dark legs.

Size

Both species are medium-sized gulls, but Heermann's Gull is slightly smaller and more compact than the Black-tailed Gull.

Plumage

The Black-tailed Gull has a white head with a black tail band and yellow legs. In contrast, Heermann's Gull features a white head during breeding season, a gray body, and a red bill with a black tip.

Behaviour

Both species exhibit typical gull behaviors, such as scavenging and opportunistic feeding. Heermann's Gull is known for its aggressive behavior in stealing food from other birds.

Habitat

Black-tailed Gulls are found in coastal regions of East Asia, often near rocky shores and islands. Heermann's Gulls are typically found along the Pacific coast of North America, especially in areas with sandy beaches and coastal lagoons.

Voice

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