Ichthyaetus melanocephalus
The Mediterranean Gull (*Ichthyaetus melanocephalus*) is a striking medium-sized gull, measuring 37-43 cm (14.6-16.9 in) in length with a wingspan of 95-105 cm (37.4-41.3 in) and weighing 200-350 g (7.1-12.3 oz). Adults in breeding plumage are instantly recognizable by their glossy black hood, contrasting sharply with their pure white body and pale grey wings, which notably lack the white 'mirrors' on the primary tips characteristic of many other gulls. Their bright red bill and legs, along w...
Primarily found in coastal and wetland environments, including estuaries, lagoons, saltmarshes, and sandy beaches. It also frequents agricultural fields, especially during non-breeding seasons, and can be found inland along large rivers or lakes.
Opportunistic omnivores, their diet primarily consists of insects (especially earthworms, beetles, and larvae), small fish, crustaceans, mollusks, eggs and chicks of other birds, carrion, and human refuse.
Mediterranean Gulls are highly social and colonial birds, nesting in dense colonies often alongside other gull or tern species. They are diurnal, spending their days foraging and often congregating in large communal roosts on open water or secluded beaches at night. Foraging is opportunistic, inv...
Historically, the Mediterranean Gull's breeding range was largely restricted to the Black Sea coastlines and the eastern Mediterranean, particularly Ukraine, Russia, and Turkey. However, since the mid-20th century, it has exhibited a remarkable and ongoing range expansion, colonizing much of West...
Least Concern
- The Mediterranean Gull has undergone one of the most dramatic range expansions of any European bird species in the last 50 years, spreading west and north from its traditional Black Sea strongholds. - Unlike most other black-headed gulls, adults in breeding plumage lack any white 'mirrors' on t...