The Black-headed Gull (Chroicocephalus ridibundus), despite its name, does not actually have a black head for most of the year. During the breeding season, adults develop a dark chocolate-brown hood, which then turns white in the winter months. This medium-sized gull is a familiar sight across the UK, particularly in coastal areas, marshes, and inland reservoirs.

Black-headed Gulls are opportunistic feeders, consuming a varied diet that includes insects, fish, earthworms, scraps from human activities, and even small mammals. They are often seen scavenging around rubbish dumps and following ploughs in fields to pick up exposed invertebrates.

These gulls are highly adaptable and can be found in a wide range of habitats, from urban parks to remote coastal cliffs. They typically nest in large colonies on islands or in marshes, constructing simple nests from grass and other vegetation.

In terms of behaviour, Black-headed Gulls are known for their raucous calls and aerial displays, particularly during the breeding season when they engage in elaborate courtship rituals. They are also highly territorial during this time.

Their average lifespan is around 12 years, although some individuals have been recorded living into their twenties. In culture, gulls are often portrayed as coastal icons, symbolising freedom and maritime life. In literature, they’ve been mentioned in works like Jonathan Livingston Seagull by Richard Bach and featured in various poems and paintings depicting seaside scenes.

An interesting fact about Black-headed Gulls is their ability to distinguish between predators and non-predators based on the direction of their gaze. They’ve also been known to exhibit kleptoparasitic behaviour, stealing food from other birds, and even humans, particularly in crowded feeding areas.