Slender-billed Gull

Scientific name: Chroicocephalus genei

Order: Charadriiformes

Genus: Chroicocephalus

Family: Laridae

Habitat: Found in coastal lagoons and saltpans

Maximum wingspan: Typically 90 – 102 cm

The Slender-billed Gull is an elegant, pale gull with a long, slender bill and pink legs. This Gull breeds around coastal lagoons, saltpans and wetlands across the Mediterranean.

In Malta, it is most often seen during its spring migration. Small flocks can be observed from the coast, particularly at Ċirkewwa during March and April. It can also be seen feeding and resting at Salina Nature Reserve and Għadira Nature Reserve during spring and throughout the summer.

Slender-billed Gulls nest in colonies on small islands, coastal saltmarshes and open muddy areas. Some also build their nests among salt-tolerant plants such as Salsola and Salicornia. Females usually lay 2–3 eggs.

They feed mainly on small fish, crustaceans, insects and other small animals that live in or around the water.

Although the Slender-billed Gull is currently widespread and abundant, it still faces a number of local threats. The main threats to this species include the loss of wetland habitats, drainage of coastal areas and disturbance at nesting colonies. This Gull is classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List thanks to its large and stable global population. In Malta, the species is protected under the EU Birds Directive and the Conservation of Wild Birds Regulations, making it illegal to deliberately disturb, capture, or harm these birds, particularly during the breeding season.

Threats

Disturbance of nesting colonies

What can we do?

Avoid disturbing birds feeding or resting in saltpans during migration.

Threats

Habitat loss

What can we do?

Support the conservation of coastal wetlands and saltmarsh habitats. Follow marked paths when visiting nature reserves.

Threats

Marine pollution

What can we do?

Dispose of litter responsibly, especially near wetlands.

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