Common Gull vs Lesser Black-backed Gull

In short

The Common Gull (Larus canus) and Lesser Black-backed Gull (Larus fuscus) can be distinguished by their mantle color and primary feather markings. Common Gulls have a medium to pale gray mantle, often paler than the Lesser Black-backed Gull, which has a darker mantle. The Common Gull typically lacks the white spot between gray and black on primaries, although this is variable.

Identification tips

1. Mantle Color: Look for a medium to pale gray mantle in Common Gulls, compared to the darker mantle of Lesser Black-backed Gulls. 2. Primary Feathers: Check for the presence of white spots on the primaries; Common Gulls usually lack these, but variability exists. 3. Eye Color: Common Gulls generally have darker eyes than Lesser Black-backed Gulls.

Plumage

Common Gulls have a medium to pale gray mantle, while Lesser Black-backed Gulls have a darker mantle. The Common Gull's primaries usually lack a white spot between gray and black, although some individuals may show small white spots.