This is the smallest of the common gulls and is easily distinguished, when, in spring and summer it has a dark brown, nearly black, head. At other times it can quite easily be confused with the Common Gull (Larus canus), as it is the most commonest of our gulls on inland waters. This because the winter plumage of the Black Headed Gull is without the black head, having only a dark mark behind the eye (see below). At all other times it may be recognised by the deep red bill and legs and the white band along the front edge of the wing. These birds are extremely sociable and can be seen in large numbers inland together with Rooks, Lapwings and Golden Plovers. Whilst on the coast with other gulls and also wading birds.

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