Scientific Name:
Larus minutus
Common Name:
Little Gull
Family:
Gull Family: Laridae
Summary:
The Little Gull is the smallest European gull. The breeding plumage is characterised by a black coloration of the head contrasting with otherwise greyish plumage. In flight, the black underparts of the wings and the white edges can be recognised. The bill is black and thin, the legs are dark red and short.
Ecology:
The Little Gull is known for its graceful flight and agile manoeuvres when looking for food. Usually, they can be found close to the sea, lakes or rivers. It builds a swimming nest made of parts of ry aquatic plants among clusters of reed but sometimes also uses former nests of other aquatic birds. It has a diet of fish, worms, carrion and waste.
Habitat:
Marshland and estuaries
Distribution:
Coasts apart form Scotland.
Size:
28 cm