California Gull vs Glaucous-winged Gull

In short

The California Gull and Glaucous-winged Gull can be distinguished by their wingtip coloration and overall size. The California Gull typically shows black wingtips with white spots, while the Glaucous-winged Gull has grey wingtips that match the rest of the wing. Size and structure differences are also notable, with the Glaucous-winged Gull being generally bulkier.

Identification tips

1. Look for black wingtips with white spots on the California Gull. 2. Note the overall bulkier size of the Glaucous-winged Gull. 3. Observe the grey wingtips on the Glaucous-winged Gull, which match the rest of the wing.

Size

The Glaucous-winged Gull is generally larger and bulkier than the California Gull.

Plumage

The California Gull has black wingtips with white spots, whereas the Glaucous-winged Gull has grey wingtips that match the rest of the wing.