Mediterranean Gull (L. melanocephalus)

(last update: June 11, 2012 )

Mediterranean Gull adult, March 27 2008, Le Portel / Boulogne-sur-Mer, NW France. Picture: Jean-Michel Sauvage.

Mediterranean Gull have a partial moult, from December to March-April which includes body and head, leaving birds in so-called "adult summer" plumage. The head develops a jet-black hood, extending down the nape. Adult birds have broad and contrasting white crescents above and below the eye. The bare part coloration in adult plumage: Iris brown, orbital ring coral red, the bill scarlet red often with a thin black bill-band and a yellowish tip and the legs red.

Partial moult at final stage, almost completely hooded.