Gulls & Terns in London
7 species matching this filter.
London's waterways, reservoirs and stretches of the Thames provide vital habitat for seven species of gulls and terns. From the ever-present European Herring Gull and Lesser Black-backed Gull patrolling rooftops and riverbanks, to the elegant Arctic Tern and Common Tern passing through on migration, these birds are a dynamic part of the capital's wildlife. To discover more about the broader birdlife of the capital, explore our guide to the 20 Most Common Birds in London: Gardens, Parks & Urban Hotspots.
Arctic Tern
Sterna paradisaeaLC
A rare spring passage migrant, occasionally spotted over London's reservoirs in April and May en route to northern breeding grounds.
Apr–May
Common Gull
Larus canusLC
Common year-round, frequenting playing fields, reservoirs, and the Thames. Numbers peak in winter with continental arrivals.
Year-round
Common Tern
Sterna hirundoLC
An uncommon summer breeder, nesting on rafts at reservoirs and gravel pits. Dives for fish from April to September.
Apr–Sep
European Herring Gull
Larus argentatusLC
A common resident increasingly nesting on rooftops. Readily seen along the Thames and at landfill sites year-round.
Year-round
Great Black-backed Gull
Larus marinusLC
An uncommon year-round resident, often seen at reservoirs and along the Thames. The largest regularly occurring gull in London.
Year-round
Lesser Black-backed Gull
Larus fuscusLC
A common year-round resident, often seen soaring over rooftops or scavenging along the Thames and in urban parks.
Year-round
Yellow-legged Gull
Larus michahellisLC
A rare but year-round resident, increasingly identified among London's large gull flocks at reservoirs and landfill sites.
Year-round