Key information
The common gull looks like a small, gentler 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 abundant on the coast and in some eastern counties. They are now seen more often in towns and on housing estates in winter.
What they eat:
Worms, insects, fish, carrion and rubbish.
Measurements:
- Length:
- 40-42cm
- Wingspan:
- 110-130cm
- Weight:
- 300-480g
Population:
- UK breeding:
- 49,000 pairs
- UK wintering:
- 710,000 birds
Identifying features:
This bird species has different identifying features depending on sex/age/season.
Common gull (winter plumage)

Common gull (summer plumage)

Common gull (first-winter plumage)
