Species · GBIF taxon 6065824
Black-headed Gull
Chroicocephalus ridibundusAlso known as Common Black-headed Gull
Black-headed gulls are highly adaptable, gregarious birds easily recognized in summer by their dark chocolate-brown hoods, which fade to a small dark smudge behind the eye in winter. They are active, noisy foragers that frequently gather in large, squawking flocks over inland lakes, coastal marshes, and urban parks. These resourceful gulls often follow agricultural plows to snatch exposed grubs or steal food from other shorebirds.
MigratorySocialAdaptable
- diet
- Insects, fish, worms, seeds, and human food scraps
- family
- Laridae
- threats
- Habitat loss, water pollution, and disturbance at nesting colonies
- life Span
- 10 to 15 years
LC
Safe to observe at a normal distance.
- Observe winter plumage: Look for the characteristic dark spot behind the eye, which replaces the full hood during non-breeding months.
- Avoid feeding bread: Offer healthier alternatives like mealworms or oats if feeding them in urban parks.
- Listen for calls: Identify them by their harsh, screeching vocalizations in crowded flocks.