Grey-headed Gull

The Grey-headed Gull, known scientifically as Chroicocephalus cirrocephalus, is a small gull species with a distinctive pale gray head in summer plumage. This bird is slightly larger than its cousin, the Black-headed Gull, measuring around 42 cm in length. The summer adult boasts a gray body, a shade darker than that of the Black-headed Gull, complemented by a red bill and legs. The primary wing feathers are tipped with black and adorned with striking white "mirrors." In winter, the gray hood retreats, leaving behind mere dark streaks.

Identification Tips

Sexes of the Grey-headed Gull are similar in appearance. The South American race, C. c. cirrocephalus, is marginally larger and has a paler back compared to the African subspecies, C. c. poiocephalus. Juveniles can be recognized by a black terminal tail band and more pronounced dark areas on the wings. When observed in flight, the wings of this species are broader and held flatter than those of the Black-headed Gull.

Habitat

This gull favors large colonies in reedbeds and marshes for breeding purposes.

Distribution

The Grey-headed Gull breeds patchily in South America and Africa, south of the Sahara. It is not a true migratory species but expands its range more widely during the winter months. Rare vagrant sightings have been recorded in North America, Italy, and Spain.

Behaviour

Highly gregarious in nature, especially in the winter season, the Grey-headed Gull often gathers in large flocks, sometimes numbering in the hundreds or thousands, particularly when feeding conditions are favorable. It is predominantly found in coastal or estuarine environments and is not considered a pelagic species, seldom venturing far out to sea.

Song & Calls

The Grey-headed Gull is a vocal bird, especially noticeable within its colonies. Its call is a raucous, crow-like "caw, caw."

Breeding

Breeding in large colonies, this gull lays two or three eggs, with nests that can be situated on the ground or floating amidst the reeds. It takes two years for the Grey-headed Gull to reach full maturity.

Similar Species

The Grey-headed Gull can be confused with the Black-headed Gull, but differences in size, wing shape, and the color of the back can help distinguish between the two.

Conservation status

The IUCN Red List has classified the Grey-headed Gull as Least Concern, indicating that, currently, there are no immediate threats to its population numbers.