Black-headed Gull vs Mediterranean Gull

In short

The Mediterranean Gull can be distinguished from the Black-headed Gull by its larger size, heavier bill, and more extensive white in the wings. In breeding plumage, the Mediterranean Gull has a completely black head, while the Black-headed Gull has a chocolate-brown head. These differences are most apparent when the birds are side by side.

Identification tips

1. Look for size and structure: the Mediterranean Gull is larger and has a heavier bill. 2. Check the head color in breeding season: Mediterranean Gull has a black hood, Black-headed Gull has a chocolate-brown hood. 3. Observe wing pattern in flight: Mediterranean Gull shows more white and lacks black wingtips. 4. Listen for calls: Mediterranean Gull's call is more nasal, though this is less reliable.

Size

The Mediterranean Gull is larger and bulkier than the Black-headed Gull, with a more robust build.

Plumage

In breeding plumage, the Mediterranean Gull has a full black hood, while the Black-headed Gull's hood is chocolate-brown. The Mediterranean Gull also has more white in the wings, especially visible in flight, with broad white trailing edges and no black wingtips. The Black-headed Gull has black wingtips and a narrower white trailing edge.

Behaviour

Both species exhibit similar gull-like behaviors, such as foraging in flocks and scavenging. No significant behavioral differences are noted.

Habitat

Both species can be found in coastal and inland water habitats, though the Mediterranean Gull is more coastal in its distribution.

Voice

The Mediterranean Gull has a more nasal and less harsh call compared to the Black-headed Gull, but vocal differences can be subtle and are not the most reliable field marks.