When trying to identify a Laughing Gull, there are a few key features to look out for. These medium-sized birds have a gray body above and a white body below. In the summer, adults have a distinct black hood on their heads, which contrasts with the rest of their plumage. Around their eyes, you can see white arcs, adding to their distinctive appearance. Another distinguishing feature is their reddish bill, which stands out against their otherwise monochromatic coloring.
During the winter months, Laughing Gulls undergo a change in their appearance. The black hood becomes less crisp and instead forms a blurry gray mask on their white heads. This can make them slightly more challenging to identify compared to their summer counterparts. However, the overall gray and white coloration, along with the reddish bill, can still help in recognizing them.
When observing Laughing Gulls, it’s also worth noting their leg color. Their legs range from reddish black to black, adding another characteristic to look out for when trying to identify them.
In summary, to identify a Laughing Gull, look for their medium gray body above and white body below. In summer, notice the black hood, white arcs around the eyes, and reddish bill. In winter, the black hood becomes a blurry gray mask on a white head. Keep in mind their leg color, which can range from reddish black to black.