A rare sighting of a Mediterranean Gull at Dubai’s Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary has wildlife enthusiasts excited. This is the first time in 28 years that this species has been spotted in the area. The bird was discovered on July 26 by birder D. Darrell-Lambert and shared on the UAE Bird Alert WhatsApp portal. The Mediterranean Gull is typically found along the coasts of Europe and the Mediterranean Sea and is considered a vagrant species in the UAE. In the past 25 years, there have been only 15 recorded sightings of this bird in the country, with most of them in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Sharjah.
Veteran wildlife expert Reza Khan, who closely monitored the bird’s behavior at RAKWS, described the Mediterranean Gull’s interactions with other species in the wetland. This species measures 36-38 cm in length and weighs between 215-350 grams. Its unique features include a chubbier appearance, a stronger bill, longer legs, and a dark eye-mask. Despite its similarities to the common Black-headed Gull, the Mediterranean Gull can be identified by its lack of black plumage on the wings and its thicker bill with a dark band near the tip.
The first recorded sighting of a Mediterranean Gull in the UAE dates back to December 27, 1996, at the Ramtha Rubbish Tip, now known as Wasit Nature Reserve in Sharjah. The bird has been primarily feeding on tilapia fish in the wetland, spending time in shallow waters alongside other waterbirds. Although the Mediterranean Gull is classified as ‘Least Concern’ on the IUCN Red List, its status in the UAE remains uncertain due to its rare appearances. However, conservation efforts at RAKWS provide an ideal refuge for this species, ensuring its safety and well-being during its stay in the country.
Khan emphasized the importance of preserving the natural habitat of the Mediterranean Gull and other migratory bird species in the UAE. The thriving birdwatching community at RAKWS contributes to the conservation efforts aimed at protecting these unique and rare visitors. The bird’s distinctive features, such as its dark eye-mask and terminal ring on the bill, make it easily recognizable in the wetland environment. With a strong focus on conservation and environmental awareness, the UAE continues to attract rare bird species like the Mediterranean Gull, providing a safe haven for them to thrive and coexist with other wildlife.
