Larus ridibundus
The Black-headed Gull exhibits a striking seasonal transformation. In summer, it sports a dark chocolate-brown hood, contrasting sharply with its white body, pale grey wings, bright red bill and legs. The wingtips are black, creating a distinctive pattern in flight.
The dark hood disappears during winter, replaced by a white head with a dark ear spot. Juveniles have brown-mottled wings and a dark terminal tail band, gradually acquiring adult plumage over several years.
Length
38cm to 44cm
Wingspan
94cm to 105cm
Weight
200g to 400g
Males and females have similar plumage
Primary Colour
White Grey
Secondary Colour
Black Brown
Beak Colour
Red
Leg Colour
Red
Woodland
Garden
Wetland
Coastal
Urban
Farmland
Grassland
Desert
Tundra
Rainforest
Mountain
Savanna
Black-headed Gulls are widely distributed across Europe and Asia, with some populations in eastern North America. They thrive in various aquatic habitats, including coastal areas, estuaries, lakes, and rivers. During the breeding season, they prefer inland freshwater bodies.
In winter, many birds move to coastal regions, with significant populations in the UK, Ireland, and other parts of Western Europe. They've also adapted well to urban environments, becoming common in city parks and harbors.
Up to 1,000 meters
Temperate, Subarctic
This map gives you a rough idea of where you might spot a Black-headed Gull. The coloured areas show countries where these birds have been seen.
A few things to keep in mind:
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