Basics of Gull Identification

Description: Who hasn’t been enchanted by the striking white head and bright red bill of breeding plumage Heerman’s Gull? Who hasn’t been frustrated by the identification challenges of the Larus (large white-headed gulls) genus? The taxonomy of gulls is complex and hotly debated. Through interbreeding, they challenge our foundational concept of a species. In the Monterey area we are graced with a large variety of these large, white-headed gulls in the winter. Western, California, Glaucous-winged, Short-billed, Ring-billed, Iceland, Heermann’s and Herring are all readily found if one looks in the right place. They’re large and usually easily approachable, yet deceivingly similar. For identification, we rely on bill shape, eye and leg color, wing-tip pattern, shade of gray on the back, body structure, and many other clues. Join us to learn a few new ID tips and hone your ID skills of this complex but fascinating group of birds.

Meet: 10:00 am at the parking lot labeled "Acropolis" on Ocean View Boulevard

Trip Logistics: We will be walking along Ocean View Boulevard looking for roosting gulls. Decisions on where else to go will be at the discretion of the field trip leader. Any walking will be along flat paved or smooth dirt roads/trails. Hard rain cancels.

Facilities:  There is a bathroom at the Crespi Pond parking lot. 

Trip Difficulty: Over the course of the morning, most gulling will be from near the cars or less than a quarter mile away. It may be cold in the morning but will hopefully warm up later on. Any walking will be over flat paved or well-graded dirt roads. Bring sunscreen, hats, water, snacks, and everything you may need for the morning. 

Trip Leader: Kyan Russell

Questions and RSVP:  For general questions email info@MontereyAudubon.org or kai.russell@montereyaudubon.org