Wildlife

UK Mediterranean Gulls and Rare Gulls Welfare

Conservation and welfare of Mediterranean gulls and other rare gull species visiting UK coasts.

Key Facts

Mediterranean gull has colonised the UK as a breeding bird as range expands northward
UK breeding population now exceeds 1,000 pairs at several coastal and inland sites
Adults have pure white wing tips distinguishing them from common gulls
Wintering birds from the continent supplement the breeding population
Other rare gulls including yellow-legged and Caspian gulls visit UK coasts and estuaries

Welfare Considerations

Individual Mediterranean gulls face welfare risks from disturbance of breeding colonies and food availability, with colony protection delivering direct welfare benefits.

What You Can Do

Support gull colony monitoring by county bird recording groups
Respect breeding gull colonies and avoid disturbance during nesting season
Record Mediterranean gull sightings to assist population monitoring