Chroicocephalus ridibundus

Black-headed Gulls are most abundant in winter, but are found here year-round and are established breeders in at least a few locations.
– Photo: Jared Clarke (January 2010)

Status: Uncommon (Breeder)

Origins: A predominantly Eurasian species that breeds abundantly in Iceland and has now colonized Newfoundland in small numbers. Known breeding sites exist on the west coast around Stephenville Crossing, Spaniard’s Bay in Conception Bay and Gander Bay – but it is likely that small numbers also nest in other locations around the island (potentially among Ring-billed Gull colonies).

Details: This species is present year-round in many locales around the island (especially in and around Stephenville Crossing), but numbers increase during winter. While dozens could once be found wintering in St. John’s each year, recent changes to waste management have reduced that significantly and this species is now much more scarce and scattered around the coast during that time.

* NOTE – This website is not an official account and “may” contain incorrect information and/or details of unconfirmed records. *