The Common Gull is such a beautiful medium-sized bird widely seen across northern Europe. Although, in Britain, they only nest in Scotland, Ireland, and northern England. They are more abundant in the winter months and can easily be identified by their dirty-yellow bill, legs, feet, and beady black eye. You can encounter them in any location, whether urban or rural, coastal or inland. During winter, they often forage alongside Black-headed Gulls searching for worms and insects on newly ploughed fields. They also thrive on fish and other aquatic life in coastal habitats. The Common Gull is slightly larger than the common Black-headed Gull, but smaller than the two species of black-backed gulls and the Herring Gull, the typical 'seaside' gull. So, if you ever spot an adult Common Gull, know that they have a unique combination of wholly yellow bill and legs that makes them distinctive.
You'll find that identifying first-winter Common Gulls is quite simple. The head has noticeable streaks on the crown and cheeks. The mantle is a dark grey color and the wings feature brown coverts and tertials, with black flight feathers. The rump and tail are white with black speckles, and there's a wide black band at the end of the tail. Lastly, the underparts from the lower breast to undertail are all white.
"With its beautiful coloration, this winter adult showcases a white head with charming light brownish-grey flecking and streaks that often stretch up to the upper breast. The mantle and wings boast a delightful deep pearly grey, featuring double white crescents and black and white primary feathers that are simply stunning. The rump and tail are a pristine white, and the underparts are wholly white, making for an overall gorgeous sight.”
During flight, the young Common Gull is quite striking with its contrasting features. Take note of the feathered head with streaks, the dark back, the wings with shades of black, brown, and grey, the white rump, and the large tail band.
During flight, you can easily spot the beautiful dark wings of an adult winter bird which feature stunning black wing tips with bold white marks. Keep an eye out for the broad white trailing edge along the wings too! If you come across a second-winter bird, you'll notice that it has more brown on the outer wing along with heavy greyish blotching on its head and duller, more olivey-colored bare parts.
During the summer season, you'll notice that the beautiful bright white head of the creature shines radiantly. In addition, both its bill and feet boast a gorgeous shade of bright yellow. You can easily spot a blood-red orbital ring around the eye, making it all the more eye-catching!
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