Laughing Gull vs Short-billed Gull

In short

The Laughing Gull and Short-billed Gull can be distinguished by their head coloration and bill structure. The Laughing Gull has a distinctive black hood during breeding, while the Short-billed Gull has a white head with a dark eye. The Laughing Gull's bill is longer and more slender compared to the Short-billed Gull's shorter, stubbier bill.

Identification tips

• Head Color: Look for the black hood of the Laughing Gull during breeding season.
• Bill Shape: Note the longer, slender bill of the Laughing Gull compared to the shorter, stubbier bill of the Short-billed Gull.
• Location: Consider the geographic location; Laughing Gulls are more common on the Atlantic and Gulf coasts, while Short-billed Gulls are found along the Pacific coast.
• Vocalization: Listen for the Laughing Gull's distinctive 'laughing' call.

Size

Laughing Gull is slightly larger and more robust than the Short-billed Gull.

Plumage

The Laughing Gull has a black hood in breeding plumage, which is absent in the Short-billed Gull. The Short-billed Gull has a white head with a dark eye and a pale gray back.

Behaviour

Laughing Gulls are often seen in large, noisy groups, especially around human activity, while Short-billed Gulls are more solitary or in smaller groups and can be found inland as well as coastal areas.

Habitat

Laughing Gulls are typically found along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts, often near human activity. Short-billed Gulls are more common along the Pacific coast and can be found in a variety of habitats, including inland waters.

Voice

The Laughing Gull is known for its distinctive 'laughing' call, while the Short-billed Gull has a more typical gull-like call.