The white-eyed gull is a small gull that is endemic to the Red Sea. Its closest relative is the sooty gull. The species is classed as Least Concern by the IUCN; human pressure and oil pollution are deemed the major threats. As is the case with many gulls, it has traditionally been placed in the genus Larus.
Region
Red Sea and adjacent coasts
Typical Environment
This species is restricted to the Red Sea, breeding on inshore islands, coral cays, and rocky islets, and using nearby shorelines for feeding and roosting. It frequents sheltered bays, reefs, and harbors, often remaining close to land. Outside the breeding season it disperses locally along the same coasts and islands. It rarely ventures far offshore, preferring inshore waters and intertidal zones. Colonies are typically in arid, sparsely vegetated sites with sand, coral rubble, or rock.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 200 m
Climate Zone
Arid
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The white-eyed gull is a small, elegant gull endemic to the Red Sea, where it breeds on low offshore islands and forages along nearby coasts. Its closest relative is the sooty gull, and adults are easily recognized by a white eye-ring set against a dark hood in breeding plumage. Although classed as Least Concern, it faces localized threats from oil pollution, disturbance at nesting colonies, and coastal development. It has often been placed historically in the genus Larus.
White-eyed gull at the Red Sea
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
buoyant with steady wingbeats
Social Behavior
A colonial breeder, it nests on the ground in loose to dense groups on low islands, often scraping a shallow nest lined with shells or vegetation. Pairs are seasonally monogamous, with both sexes sharing incubation and chick rearing. Outside breeding, it gathers in flocks at roosts and feeding sites, especially near ports and fish-landing areas.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations include sharp, yelping and mewing calls typical of small gulls, along with rattling scolds at intruders near nests. Display calls are higher-pitched and nasal, carrying over colonies and along shorelines.
