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Mediterranean Gull

Ichthyaetus melanocephalus

The Mediterranean Gull is a beautiful bird with a black head and a bright white body. It loves to live near the sea and can often be seen flying over beaches and coastal areas.

Habitat: Coastal areas

Appearance

The Mediterranean Gull has a distinctive black head during breeding, bright red bill and legs, and pale grey upperparts. Unlike other gulls, its wingtips are entirely white, making it stand out visually.

KingdomAnimaliaPhylumChordataClassAvesOrderCharadriiformesFamilyLaridaeGenusIchthyaetus
Mediterranean Gull
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Mediterranean Gull

Category

Birds

Rarity

Common

Danger

1/5 · Very low

Snaps

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Interesting facts

Despite its name, many now breed far from the Mediterranean Sea!

Their breeding range has expanded dramatically northwards in recent decades!

They often gather in huge flocks, sometimes thousands strong!

Young gulls take two years to grow their full black head feathering!

Special abilities

Ability

Laughing Call

Mediterranean Gull has a unique 'laughing' call that helps them communicate across noisy environments.

Ability

Adaptable Forager

Mediterranean Gull can find food in diverse habitats because of its flexible diet and keen eyesight.

Ability

Aerial Agility

Mediterranean Gull can perform agile aerial maneuvers because of its streamlined body and strong wings.

Measurements & details

Length
36-40 cm
Wingspan
90-100 cm
Weight
0.2-0.35 kg
Lifespan
10-15 years
Top Speed
50 km/h
Clutch Size
2-3
Incubation
23-26 days
Migration Distance
1500 km

Diet & Feeding

This gull enjoys a varied menu, from insects and worms to small fish and scraps!

Primary Foods

  • insects
  • earthworms
  • small fish
  • crustaceans
  • agricultural waste
  • seeds

Foraging Method

  • Foraging

Ecological connections

eats

Common Earthworm

Lumbricus terrestris

Consumes them from soil in fields.

shelters

Black-headed Gull

Chroicocephalus ridibundus

Often nests in mixed colonies for collective defense.

eats

Boye's Silverside

Atherina boyeri

Preys on small schooling fish near coasts.

eats

Common Wheat

Triticum aestivum

Feeds on discarded grains in farm fields.

Traits

Also known as

No aliases listed yet.

Collections

Safety

Danger

1/5 · Very low

Always watch birds from a distance and don't try to touch them.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is Mediterranean Gull?

36-40 cm

What is Mediterranean Gull's wingspan?

90-100 cm

How much does Mediterranean Gull weigh?

0.2-0.35 kg

How long does Mediterranean Gull live?

10-15 years

How fast can Mediterranean Gull move?

50 km/h

What does Mediterranean Gull eat?

This gull enjoys a varied menu, from insects and worms to small fish and scraps!

Where is Mediterranean Gull usually found?

Coastal areas

How does Mediterranean Gull hunt?

Foraging

Snap Map

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