Little Auk vs Little Gull

In short

The Little Auk and Little Gull are distinct in both size and habitat preferences. The Little Auk is a small, chunky seabird often seen in northern oceanic waters, while the Little Gull is the smallest gull, found in freshwater and coastal areas.

Identification tips

1. Size and Shape: Little Auk is more compact and chunky, while Little Gull is more delicate with longer wings. 2. Plumage: Look for the black head and back of the Little Auk versus the grayish upperparts and black cap of the Little Gull. 3. Habitat: Little Auk in oceanic waters; Little Gull in freshwater or coastal areas. 4. Behavior: Little Auk dives for fish; Little Gull flutters over water, picking insects. 5. Vocalization: Listen for the soft, high-pitched call of the Little Gull.

Size

The Little Auk is a small, chunky seabird, whereas the Little Gull is the smallest gull species, appearing more delicate and with longer wings relative to its body size.

Plumage

Little Auks have a black and white plumage with a distinct black head and back, contrasting with their white underparts. Little Gulls, on the other hand, have a more uniform grayish upper body with a black cap during breeding season and a distinctive white trailing edge on the wings.

Behaviour

Little Auks are often seen in flocks, diving for fish in cold ocean waters. Little Gulls are more solitary or in small groups, often seen fluttering over freshwater or coastal habitats, picking insects from the surface.

Habitat

Little Auks are typically found in arctic and subarctic oceanic environments, while Little Gulls are more likely to be seen in freshwater lakes, marshes, and coastal areas.

Voice

Little Auks are generally silent at sea, but can be noisy at breeding colonies. Little Gulls have a soft, high-pitched call, often heard during flight.