Definition

Noun A small, black-headed gull (Larus ridibundus) native to Europe and Asia, also known as the black-headed gull. It is a common coastal and inland bird.

Usage

This is a scientific or formal term used in ornithology (the study of birds) to specifically identify this species of gull. It is less common in everyday conversation than its common name, "black-headed gull."

Examples

• The marsh was teeming with Larus ridibundus during the spring migration.
• Ornithologists conducted a population study on Larus ridibundus around the North Sea.
• In the field guide, Larus ridibundus is distinguished from similar gulls by its dark red bill and legs.

Advanced Usage

• The term is used in binomial nomenclature, the formal system for naming species. is the genus name for gulls, and is the specific epithet for this species.

Variants and Related Words

• Black-headed gull: The common English name for .
• Laughing gull (): A different, similarly named gull species found in the Americas, which can cause confusion.

Synonyms

• Black-headed gull

Notes on Different Meanings

This term has only one specific meaning: it refers exclusively to this particular species of bird. It is not used idiomatically or in phrasal verbs.

Noun

1. small black-headed European gull