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Little gull

Larus minutus

The little gull is distinguished by its dark underwings. Photo Aaro Toivio.

General information. The little gull is a recent eastern addition to the Finnish avifauna with the first observations being made during the 1860’s. The species has since spread and the population has increased significantly. By the end of the 1990’s the size of the population was estimated at about 8000-13 000 pairs. The little gull is a protected species under the European Union bird directive.

  • Length about 26 cm
  • Nests on the ground
  • Migrates to the Mediterranean over winter
  • Feeds on insects

Habitat. The little gull is an inhabitant of lush bird-lakes, nesting in communities on small islands and skerries. In Vaasa, this species has also been found nesting on islets in the archipelago.

Distribution in Vaasa. The little gull is a rare nester in Vaasa and was observed during nesting season, May-July, in about 20 locations. It is most likely to be observed around the Sundominlahti bay or the Pukinjärvi lake in the end of May. It is discernable from other gull species by its smaller size and distinguishing call. Distribution map is not published due to species protection reasons.