Saunders's Gull vs Herring Gull

In short

Saunders's Gull and Herring Gull can be distinguished by size and plumage. Saunders's Gull is much smaller and has a distinctive black hood in breeding plumage, while the Herring Gull is larger with a more uniform gray back and wings.

Identification tips

1. Size: Saunders's Gull is much smaller than Herring Gull. 2. Breeding Plumage: Look for the black hood on Saunders's Gull. 3. Habitat: Saunders's Gull is more restricted to coastal mudflats, while Herring Gull can be found in a wider range of habitats. 4. Overall Color: Herring Gull has a gray back and wings with black wingtips, contrasting with the lighter Saunders's Gull.

Size

Saunders's Gull is significantly smaller than the Herring Gull, which is a large gull species.

Plumage

In breeding plumage, Saunders's Gull has a black hood, which is absent in Herring Gull. Herring Gull has a gray back and wings with black wingtips, while Saunders's Gull has a lighter overall appearance with a white body and gray wings.

Behaviour

Both species exhibit typical gull behavior, but Saunders's Gull is more likely to be seen in coastal mudflats, while Herring Gulls are often found in a variety of coastal and inland habitats.

Habitat

Saunders's Gull is typically found in coastal mudflats and estuaries, whereas Herring Gull is more versatile, inhabiting coastal areas, inland lakes, and urban environments.

Voice

Vocalizations are not a reliable distinguishing feature between these two species in the field.