Herring Gull

This gull, found widely in the Northern Hemisphere, features a common and variable appearance. Adult birds exhibit a pale gray back, a light eye, and pinkish legs. Immatures take four years to transition from predominantly brown plumage to full white and gray. Different subspecies contribute to its diverse look. Typically, the bill shows a dull pink base in the first winter and gains a pale eye by the second. While some immature individuals may become nearly white, they retain dark wingtips. These gulls thrive inland and along coasts, favoring areas like fishing boats, beaches, lakes, and landfills. They often congregate in large flocks alongside other gull species.