Black-headed Gull look-alikes

Key differences

Smaller size (much smaller, about the size of a swift), entirely black underwings (Black-headed has white underwings), a short, fine black bill, and a faster, more fluttery flight. Breeding Little Gulls have a solid black head, not chocolate-brown, and no white leading edge on primaries. Juveniles have a distinct 'W' pattern on the upperwings and a narrower tail band.

Key differences

Slightly larger, stouter, and bulkier. Breeding adults have a truly black head (not brown), a thicker, brighter red bill with a black subterminal band, and entirely white primary feathers (Black-headed has black primaries with white leading edge). The underwings are also entirely white in Mediterranean Gull. Non-breeding Mediterranean Gulls have a cleaner white head with only a faint smudged eye mask, lacking the distinct dark ear spot of the Black-headed Gull. Calls are also distinctly different, less 'laughing'.

Key differences

Primarily North American. Similar in size, but breeding Bonaparte's has a solid black head, not brown, and a slender, all-black bill. It also shows a white crescent behind the eye and a distinctive white triangular patch on the outer primaries (visible from above). Underwings are pale but often appear darker than Black-headed due to grey flight feathers.

Key differences

Rare, found in Central Asia. Superficially similar but larger, with a heavier bill and distinctive facial markings in breeding plumage, including extensive black on the head that extends down the neck, and prominent white crescents around the eye, giving a 'spectacled' appearance. Non-breeding plumage is cleaner white on the head than Black-headed.