As a child the herring gull is brown with scale-like patterns, and almost looks like a different kind of bird. But this is just a young herring gull. The mouth has a black stripe across it at this point. Note that you can click on all images below to get a larger version.
Herring Gull - youth
Herring Gull - youth
As an adult, the herring gull is white with grey wings, a red spot on the lower beak, and black back feathers. Its legs are pale tan.
Herring Gull - adult
Herring Gull on rock
The photos on this page were all taken by Lisa Shea in Rhode Island.
Herring Gull Photos - Connecticut
Great Black-Backed Gull - Darker Wings
