Is there enough here for a positive ID?
Image was captured in July on Plum Island in MA.
As I remember, adult gulls present at the time were Laughing, Ring-billed, Greater Black-backed, and Bonaparte's.
Based on looking at Sibley's, I'm thinking Juvenile Ring-billed but can anyone confirm?
The size of the bird is very important here. Was it as small as RB Gull?
From the very bright plumage, head shape, bill proportions and shape
I'd say it is Greater Black-backed Gull.
This is a case where a full bird photo would solve the mystery. It appears to be a Ring-billed Gull. It's most definitely NOT a Great Black-backed Gull - the bill is far too thin and parallel-sided.
I was afraid that this might not be enough to go on. I ruled out Great Black-backed on the basis of Sibley showing the immature plumages as having a "mostly white head".
Unfortunately, I did not get a full body image at the time. I have attached the widest view that I captured in the hopes that it might provide some additional clues but I suspect that it doesn't add much.
Immature Gull ID?
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