Common name: White-eyed Gull
Scientific name: Larus leucophthalmus
Family: Laridae

Size:
Body length: 38–43 cm
Wingspan: 105–115 cm
Weight: 300–450 g

Identification:
A distinctive medium-sized gull with dark slate-grey plumage contrasting against a white eye and dark hood. The bill is bright red with a black subterminal band, and the legs are also red. The white eye is especially striking and unique among gulls in its range. In flight, the wings appear dark with contrasting white trailing edges.

Habitat:
Coastal waters, coral reefs, offshore islands, harbors, lagoons, and sandy or rocky shorelines of the Red Sea and nearby marine regions.

Status in the UAE:
Uncommon visitor, mainly along eastern and northern coastal waters.

Diet:
Omnivorous and opportunistic — feeds on fish, marine invertebrates, carrion, and scraps from the water surface.

Behavior:
Usually seen along coastal waters and around islands. Often follows fishing activity and may gather in small flocks. Agile in flight and capable of taking food directly from the sea surface. Breeds colonially on isolated islands.

Conservation status:
Least Concern (IUCN Red List)