The Common Gull does not live up to its name, as it is not very common. It has quite a benign look to it, nowhere near as threatening as herring gulls and the two black-backed gulls. It is also similar to Kittiwakes. However, Kittiwakes have pure black wingtips, whereas the Common Gulls have white tips at the end of their black wing tips. Kittiwakes also have very dark legs compared to the green/yellow of the common gull. This one was paddling in Druridge Pools, and is in its summer plumage - pure white head with all yellow bill.

You would be most likely to see Common Gulls in the Bay. These two were photographed much later in the year (Nov/Dec) and they are in their winter plumage, with a dark band on their bill, and a dusky hood on their head.