Another odd gull

[David Hyde]

Hi CObirders -- At Lake McIntosh in Longmont in February I saw this gull. I note that it has the bill pattern of a California gull but the pink legs, pale eye and large size of a Herring gull. It looks more like a Herring gull except for the bill pattern which is distinctly that of a California gull. Do you all think this is just a Herring gull or a cross between the two (I got lost online trying to sort this out...). Any guidance appreciated. I have more photos but am allowed to send only one. Cheers!

 

[David Suddjian]

Many winter Am. Herring Gulls also have blackish on the bill near the red spot. It varies among individuals.  This is a Herring.

David Suddjian

Littleton, CO

On Thu, Mar 5, 2026 at 11:22 PM David Hyde <davidh...@gmail.com> wrote:

Hi CObirders -- At Lake McIntosh in Longmont in February I saw this gull. I note that it has the bill pattern of a California gull but the pink legs, pale eye and large size of a Herring gull. It looks more like a Herring gull except for the bill pattern which is distinctly that of a California gull. Do you all think this is just a Herring gull or a cross between the two (I got lost online trying to sort this out...). Any guidance appreciated. I have more photos but am allowed to send only one. Cheers!

 

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[David Hyde]

Thank you for confirmation as American Herring gull. I learn something new about birds all the time. And here's another gull from Lake McIntosh for your consideration... it looks like a Ring-billed gull, but has bright yellow legs and a grey face mask!