The White-eyed Gull is a distinctive medium-sized seabird endemic to the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden, making it one of the few gull species largely restricted to this region. It is easily recognized by its dark slate-grey body, bright red bill, red legs, and striking white eye, a combination unique among gulls. The species typically inhabits coastal waters, offshore islands, coral reefs, and sheltered bays, where it feeds on fish, marine invertebrates, and food scraps obtained from the water surface. Unlike many widespread gulls, the White-eyed Gull has a relatively limited range and breeds mainly on remote rocky islands and sandy islets, often forming colonies. In the United Arab Emirates it is considered an uncommon visitor, appearing occasionally along the eastern and northern coasts during movements within the region.

A curious evolutionary twist hides in that bright eye: the species’ scientific name leucophthalmus literally means “white-eyed,” a trait so distinctive that it inspired the bird’s entire identity.