Ross's Gull vs Grey-hooded Gull

In short

Ross's Gull and Grey-hooded Gull can be distinguished by their size and plumage. Ross's Gull is smaller with a distinctive wedge-shaped tail and a pinkish wash on its underparts, while Grey-hooded Gull is larger with a grey hood and lacks the pinkish hue.

Identification tips

• Size: Ross's Gull is noticeably smaller.
• Tail Shape: Look for the wedge-shaped tail in Ross's Gull.
• Plumage: Check for the pinkish wash on the underparts of Ross's Gull.
• Head: Grey-hooded Gull has a distinct grey hood.
• Location: Consider the geographic location; Ross's Gull is Arctic, while Grey-hooded Gull is found in South America and Africa.

Size

Ross's Gull is smaller and more delicate compared to the larger Grey-hooded Gull.

Plumage

Ross's Gull has a unique pinkish wash on its underparts and a wedge-shaped tail, while Grey-hooded Gull features a grey hood and lacks the pinkish underparts.

Behaviour

Both species are gulls and may exhibit similar behaviors such as foraging in flocks, but specific differences in behavior are not well-documented.

Habitat

Ross's Gull is typically found in Arctic regions, often near tundra and coastal areas, while Grey-hooded Gull is more commonly found in coastal and inland waters in South America and Africa.

Voice

Vocalizations are not a primary distinguishing feature between these species, and specific differences are not well-documented.