Latin name

Larus canus

Family

Gulls (Laridae)

Overview

It looks like a small, gentler version of the herring gull, with greenish legs and a yellow bill. Despite its name, it is not at all common in some inland areas, though often abundant on the coast and in some eastern counties. They are now seen more often in towns and on housing estates in winter.

Where to see them

In summer look along coasts and inland marshes and lakes of Scotland, N Ireland and N England. Elsewhere in England and Wales seen in winter on farmland, near lakes and marshes and on the coast.

When to see them

All year round.

What they eat

Worms, insects, fish, carrion and rubbish.