Mediterranean Gull
Larus melanocephalus
Length 36-38cm

Scarce but increasingly frequent visitor to Britain and Ireland, mostly in S and E; also a rare but regular breeding species in S England among colonies of black-headed gulls. Superficially similar to black-headed gull but separable in all plumages with care and experience. Most consistent features of adult are pure white wings. In winter (A), has dark smudges around eyes but in summer (B) acquires black hood, eyes defined by white 'eyelids'. Blood-red bill is stouter than that of black-headed and has dark band near tip. In first winter, similar to first winter black-headed but dark streaks on head and white 'eyelids' give menacing look to face. In second winter, similar to winter adult but, at rest, shows dark tips to primaries. Outside breeding season, often found with black-headed gulls.