How to identify

The Common Gull looks like a smaller version of the Herring Gull, with greenish legs and a yellow bill. Despite its name, it is not at all common in most inland areas, though it can be found in large numbers on the coast and in some eastern counties. They are now seen more often in towns and on housing estates in winter.

Call

Common Gull

Niels Krabbe / xeno-canto

Common gull resting on a beach in Norfolk
Gulls and the law: What to do if gulls nest on your roof

Did you know that there is more than one type of ‘seagull’? In fact, there are around 50 species worldwide and six types which commonly breed in the UK! Perhaps you have that noticed that not all of them are seen by the sea? 

Key

  1. Resident
  2. Passage
  3. Summer
  4. Winter
* This map is intended as a guide. It shows general distribution rather than detailed, localised populations.
  1. Jan
  2. Feb
  3. Mar
  4. Apr
  5. May
  6. Jun
  7. Jul
  8. Aug
  9. Sep
  10. Oct
  11. Nov
  12. Dec

Key facts