Little Gull
NameLittle Gull
Common NameLittle Gull
Scientific NameHydrocoloeus minutus
FamilyLaridae
Wingspan (cm)53
Length (cm)26
Weight (g)100
Plumage DetailsAdult breeding plumage features a solid black head, white neck and underparts, and pale grey upperwings with no black tips. The underwing primaries are dark, giving a distinctive two-toned appearance in flight. The bill is small and dark red, and the legs are bright red.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations are typically high-pitched and nasal, often described as a repeated 'kik-kik-kik' or a soft 'ga-ga-ga'. These calls are relatively quiet compared to larger gulls.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatswetland, coastal
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds across northern Europe and Asia, primarily in freshwater wetlands. It winters mainly in western Europe, the Mediterranean, the Black Sea, and along the Atlantic coast of North America.
Identifying FeaturesSmallest gull species, Black head (breeding plumage), Pale grey upperwings without black tips, Dark underwing primaries, Red legs and small dark bill
Description
The Little Gull is the smallest species of gull, characterized by its graceful, buoyant flight. In breeding plumage, it sports a distinctive black head, contrasting with its pale grey upperwings and white underparts. It typically forages over water, catching insects in flight or picking small prey from the surface.
