Black-legged Kittiwake vs Mediterranean Gull

In short

The Black-legged Kittiwake and Mediterranean Gull can be distinguished by leg color and head markings. The kittiwake has black legs and a distinct black ear spot in non-breeding plumage, while the Mediterranean Gull has red legs and a solid black hood in breeding plumage.

Identification tips

1. Leg Color: Black-legged Kittiwake has black legs; Mediterranean Gull has red legs. 2. Head Markings: In non-breeding plumage, look for the kittiwake's black ear spot versus the Mediterranean Gull's white head. 3. Wing Tips: Kittiwake has black wing tips; Mediterranean Gull has white primary tips. 4. Call: Listen for the kittiwake's 'kitti-waake' versus the Mediterranean Gull's 'yow'.

Size

Both species are medium-sized gulls, but the Mediterranean Gull is slightly larger and more robust.

Plumage

The Black-legged Kittiwake has a white head with a black ear spot in non-breeding plumage, while the Mediterranean Gull has a black hood in breeding plumage and a white head in non-breeding plumage. The kittiwake's wings are gray with black tips, and the Mediterranean Gull has white primary tips.

Behaviour

Both species are social and often found in flocks, but the Black-legged Kittiwake is more likely to be seen at sea.

Habitat

Black-legged Kittiwakes are typically found in coastal and pelagic environments, while Mediterranean Gulls are more often seen in coastal lagoons, estuaries, and inland waters.

Voice

The Black-legged Kittiwake has a distinctive 'kitti-waake' call, whereas the Mediterranean Gull's call is a more nasal 'yow' or 'yeow'.