Gulls & Terns in Buckinghamshire
7 species matching this filter.
Buckinghamshire's reservoirs, gravel pits and river valleys provide important habitats for gulls and terns, attracting seven recorded species to the county. Notable visitors include the elegant Black Tern, which passes through on migration, alongside more familiar species such as the Common Gull and European Herring Gull. The county's inland waterways, particularly sites like Little Marlow Gravel Pits and Calvert Jubilee, offer excellent opportunities to observe both breeding terns and wintering gull flocks.
Black Tern
Chlidonias nigerLC
A rare September passage migrant, occasionally seen hawking insects over reservoirs and gravel pits on autumn migration.
Sep
Common Gull
Larus canusLC
An uncommon resident found at reservoirs and farmland, scarcer in summer. Often mixes with Black-headed Gull flocks.
Jul–Apr
Common Tern
Sterna hirundoLC
An uncommon breeding visitor from April to September, nesting on islands and rafts at gravel pits and reservoirs.
Apr–Sep
European Herring Gull
Larus argentatusLC
Present year-round but uncommon, often seen at reservoirs, landfill sites, and playing fields. Less numerous here than in coastal counties.
Year-round
Great Black-backed Gull
Larus marinusLC
A rare non-breeding visitor mainly in winter months, occasionally seen loafing at larger reservoirs and gravel pits alongside other gulls.
Jul–Mar
Lesser Black-backed Gull
Larus fuscusLC
Common throughout the year, frequently seen soaring over towns and gathering at reservoirs and landfill sites across the county.
Year-round
Yellow-legged Gull
Larus michahellisLC
Rare passage visitor in late autumn and winter, sometimes found among gull flocks at larger reservoirs and tips.
Nov–Jan