Herring Gull vs Glaucous Gull

In short

The Herring Gull and Glaucous Gull are large, pale gulls often confused due to their similar size and coloration. The Glaucous Gull is distinguished by its unmarked white wingtips, while the Herring Gull typically shows black markings on the wingtips. Both species have similar calls, making visual identification more reliable.

Identification tips

1. Check wingtips: Glaucous Gull has white wingtips, Herring Gull has black markings. 2. Overall color: Glaucous Gull is paler with a whiter appearance. 3. Size and bulk: Glaucous Gull is slightly larger and bulkier. 4. Habitat: Consider the region; Glaucous Gull is more common in Arctic areas.

Size

Both species are large gulls, but the Glaucous Gull is slightly bulkier and larger overall than the Herring Gull.

Plumage

The Glaucous Gull has unmarked white wingtips, while the Herring Gull usually displays black markings on its wingtips. The Glaucous Gull is also generally paler overall, lacking the darker gray mantle of the Herring Gull.

Behaviour

Both species exhibit similar behaviors, such as scavenging and opportunistic feeding, often seen around human refuse and coastal areas.

Habitat

Both species are found in coastal regions, but the Glaucous Gull is more likely to be found in Arctic and sub-Arctic regions, while the Herring Gull is more widespread across temperate regions.

Voice

Both species have similar calls, consisting of loud, laughing cries, making vocalizations less useful for differentiation.