Laughing Gull (Larus philadelphia)

im no expert on american birds (being from the UK), but that looks to be a Laughing Gull?

Bonaparte's and Laughing Gulls are very close in appearence especially in the nonbreeding plumage. The biggest difference is that the Laughing Gull has orange/red in its beak and the Bonaparte's Gull has an all black bill. This gull has a pure black bill.

Bob Sheldon

Hi! theres a lot more differences between the two. Laughing is a much bigger bird than Bonapartes, about the size of a common gull (Mew Gull). Bonapartes is smaler than Black-headed gull. Laughings bill is larger, and it is darker grey above. Bonapartes is a little darker than Black-headed gull. In winter Laughing also has a dark bill. Look att the Bonapartes below.
JanJ

http://www.roysephotos.com/zzBonGull17D.jpg

Lovely photo, Bob. I have to agree with the others though: it's an adult Laughing Gull. Bonaparte's is an altogther more dainty, gentle-looking bird. In addition to the points Jan mentions, the long-winged look of your bird is another character.

Sorry it has taken me so long to respond. I have not been ignoring you but rather have been on a long photo trip and have just gotten home. I agree, it is a Laughing Gull.