Glaucous-winged Gull
Larus glaucescens
The Glaucous-winged Gull is a rare visitor to Britain, typically seen along coastal areas, particularly in the west and north, with sightings often associated with extreme weather events or as a vagrant. It is most likely to be spotted during the winter months or during periods of strong westerly winds.
Field Identification Guide
Use these features to identify Glaucous-winged Gull in the field.
This species can be identified by its large size, white head, and distinctive grey wings with a bluish-grey tint, as well as its pinkish-yellow bill with a red spot. The wingtips are also notable for being grey with no white tips, distinguishing it from similar gull species.
The Glaucous-winged Gull is larger than a Lesser Black-backed Gull, with a more substantial build and broader wings.
The male's plumage is characterized by a white head, grey wings, and a white body, with a pinkish-yellow bill and legs, showing little to no seasonal variation.
Similar to the male, the female Glaucous-winged Gull exhibits the same plumage patterns and colours, with no notable differences.
The call of the Glaucous-winged Gull is a deep, raspy "kraa" or "gaak" sound, often repeated in a series of loud, drawn-out cries.
This gull is an opportunistic feeder, scavenging for food along beaches, in estuaries, and at sea, with a strong, steady flight and a tendency to follow boats and other birds to feed on scraps.
The Glaucous-winged Gull can be confused with the Herring Gull or the Lesser Black-backed Gull, but it can be distinguished by its grey wingtips without white edges and its more robust build, as well as its distinctive bill colour and pattern.
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