Observe and photograph a species in its natural habitat

Learn where and when to observe a species in the wild, how to recognize it in the field, and what habitats it lives in. Get photography tips adapted to its behavior and capture stunning images without disturbing the animal. For full details, open the complete profile in the WildlifePhotographer app.

Black-headed gull

Scientific name: Larus ridibundus


Black-headed gull

IUCN Status: Least Concern

Family: LARIDAE

Group: Birds

Shyness: Suspicious

Safe distance: 15 m

Breeding season / Courtship: 01.01-31.12

Gestation: 250 à 300 jours

Births: 31.12-15.01


Habitat:
Coastal areas, harbors, estuaries, rivers

Description:
The black-headed gull is a small gull easily recognized by its black head (in summer), white plumage, and light gray wings. It is primarily found in Europe and Asia and is often seen near bodies of water, in harbors, and estuaries. It is omnivorous, feeding on small fish, insects, and sometimes human scraps. This gull is also known for its aerial acrobatics, often seen flying and diving into the water to catch its food.

Recommended lens:
>=400 mm

Photography tips:
Photograph the black-headed gull using a telephoto lens to capture the details of its plumage and aerial acrobatics. It is best to photograph early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the light is soft and the bird is more active. Be ready to capture the moment when the gull dives into the water or takes flight, keeping in mind its quick behavior.

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