Larus ridibundus Linnaeus 1766
Black-headed gull
Species recognized by T Orrell (custodian), The Integrated Taxonomic Information System
in 
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- Description
- Morphology
- Behavior
- Reproduction and Life History
- Trophic Strategy
- Biology
- Ecology and Distribution
- Distribution
- Habitat
- Conservation
- Trends and Threats
- Relevance
- Uses
- Biodiversity Heritage Library
- References and More Information
- Literature References
- Specialist Projects
- Common Names
Description
Source and Additional Information
The common name of this species is inaccurate, as adult black-headed gulls have a chocolate-brown head in summer (5). In winter, this brown hood retreats and the birds have a largely white head with a dark spot behind the eye (5). Other distinguishing features include the prominent white leading edge of the upper wing, which is visible from a fair distance, the tern-like slender wings and the reddish coloured bill and legs (2). Juveniles are different in appearance to adults; they have ginger-brown coloured upperparts and a yellowish bill with a black tip (2). This is a noisy species during the breeding season, producing a loud kwarr call and a short kwup (6).
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