Black-headed Gull
Larus ridibundus
Length 35-38cm

The most numerous small gull in Britain and Ireland. Plumage varies according to age and time of year but at all times easily recognised in flight by white leading edge to wings. Adult has grey back and upperwings, white underparts, red legs and a reddish bill. In winter (A), has dark smudges behind eye but in summer (B) acquires chocolate brown, not black, hood. Juvenile birds, seen in late summer, have marbled brown and grey upperparts; in first winter plumage, shows dark-tipped pinkish bill with grey and brown on upperwings. Breeds beside upland lakes and on coastal marshes. Outside breeding season, found on a wide range of freshwater habitats as well as around coasts. Will visit urban areas and frequents car parks and ornamental lakes; also follows ploughs on arable land.