Posted by Matthew Sim
Though we see them a lot during the summer, most of us have some difficulty in identifying these guys; so here’s a breakdown of the common Calgary gulls.
California Gull; identified by rounded head, red and black spot on bill and greenish-yellow legs. Also note completely dark eye.
Franklin's Gull, the easiest gull in Calgary as it is, for the most part, the only one with a black head. Also note the white eye-crescents and the bright red beak.
Ring-billed Gull with its namesake ringed bill is probably the most common gull in Calgary and is often seen in parking lots.I separated from the Herring Gull by its yellow legs. Similar to California Gull, which has a darker eye.
The Herring Gull is nearly identical to the Ring-billed Gull, the one big difference though is the legs. Herring Gulls have pink legs while Ring-billed Gulls have yellow legs.
Though identifying gulls can be very difficult, hopefully this helps you next time you see a gull in Calgary.
Thanks! I’ve been trying to distinguish them for a while now…