Audouin’s Gull
Ichthyaetus audouinii
Audouin's Gull is a rare and occasional visitor to Britain, typically seen during the summer months, particularly in the southern and western coastal regions. It is more commonly associated with the Mediterranean coastline, but occasional sightings have been recorded in the UK, often in the company of other gull species.
Field Identification Guide
Use these features to identify Audouin’s Gull in the field.
The Audouin's Gull can be identified by its slender bill, white head and body with a dark grey back, and distinctive white wing tips, which distinguish it from other gull species. Its legs are also a notable feature, being greenish-grey in colour.
The Audouin's Gull is slightly larger than a Black-headed Gull, but smaller than a Lesser Black-backed Gull.
The male Audouin's Gull has a white head, neck, and underparts, with a dark grey back and wings, and a black wing tip with a white mirror, with little seasonal variation in its plumage.
The female Audouin's Gull is similar to the male, with no significant differences in plumage, although juveniles may exhibit more mottling and a darker overall appearance.
The Audouin's Gull has a distinctive, loud, and raspy call, often described as a harsh "kraa" or "krak" sound, which is frequently used for communication and alarm.
Audouin's Gulls are opportunistic feeders, often scavenging for food in coastal areas, and are known to follow fishing boats to feed on discarded fish, with a direct and purposeful flight style.
The Audouin's Gull can be confused with the Slender-billed Gull, but can be distinguished by its greenish-grey legs and more slender bill, as well as its distinctive white wing tips and black wing tip mirrors.
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