Large Gulls

Here's a list of all the UK Large Gulls:

Caspian Tern

Caspian Terns are easily recognised by their large size and striking appearance. They have a robust red-orange bill with a black tip, black legs, and a distinctive black cap on their heads.

Their bodies are white with pale grey upper wings and dark primary feathers on the undersides. Unlike many other terns, they retain some black streaking on their foreheads even in winter.

Differences Between Male And Female Caspian Terns

Male and female Caspian Terns are similar in appearance, making them difficult to distinguish by sight alone.

Both sexes have the same colouration and size, with males typically being slightly larger than females.

Behavioural differences, particularly during breeding season, can help in identifying the sexes. Males are often more active in nest building and territorial displays.

Herring Gull

Herring Gulls are big and striking birds. Adults are known for their light grey-coloured backs and white underparts, with characteristic black wing tips marked with ‘mirrors’.

Their legs are pink and they have webbed feet, with strong, slightly curved bills marked with red. Young birds display a mottled brown appearance.

Differences Between Male And Female Herring Gulls

While both male and female Herring Gulls share the same plumage, males are typically larger than females. This size difference is often the key to telling them apart.

Great Black-Backed Gull

The Great Black-Backed Gull stands out as the largest member of the gull family.

Adults boast a striking black back and wings, contrasting sharply with their white head, neck, and underparts. This gull’s wingspan stretches an impressive 150 to 170 cm, and it has a robust, powerful build.

The gull’s hefty beak is yellow with a reddish spot on its lower mandible, while its legs are a soft pink.

Differences Between Male and Female Great Black-Backed Gulls

Males and females are similar in appearance, but males are generally larger. Both genders display the same distinctive black and white plumage and the characteristic yellow beak with a red spot.

Glaucous Gull

Glaucous Gulls are large, powerful seabirds, boasting a pale grey mantle and white wingtips.

Adults display a pale grey back with a white tail and underparts, complemented by a thick, yellow bill.

Juveniles exhibit very pale grey plumage with a pink and black bill. These gulls are distinguishable by their size, being larger and bulkier than the similar Iceland Gull.

Differences Between Male And Female Glaucous Gulls

Male and female Glaucous Gulls share similar plumage, with females being marginally smaller. Both exhibit the same pale colouring and stout build characteristic of the species.

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