Little Gull
Larus minutus
Length 28cm

The world's smallest gull. Has buoyant, tern-like flight and favours coastal and marine habitats outside breeding season. Does not nest in Britain but seen as an uncommon passage migrant in spring and autumn, particularly along coasts of E England. Also occurs as a scarce and erratic winter resident, mostly to S and W England and Ireland. Small size is always a good character when seen with black-headed gulls, but adult little gull's sooty black underwing is its most diagnostic feature; wings look rounded and have narrow, white trailing margin. In winter, has dark smudges on face but in summer, acquires dark hood; legs and bill reddish at all times. Juvenile has striking black bars along wings and black-tipped tail; can be confused only with juvenile kittiwake.