Best time to see: Sep to Mar

Key facts

Totally maritime gull a bit larger than a black-headed gull

Habitat: sea and cliffs

Breeds on sea cliffs on most coasts around Britain but not in Essex, and for the rest of the year roams the sea

Recognition

Grey and white upperparts, yellow bill and black legs; 40 cm

Spends most of the time at sea; when breeding forms dense colonies

Eats fish