Hello, everyone! Today, let’s talk about the adorable Black-headed Gull, a bird that adorns Tokyo’s winter skies and is also famous as a symbol of Tokyo.
As its name suggests, the Black-headed Gull has a white body with a soft grey back. Particularly striking are its vivid red beak and legs. This bird is relatively small for a gull, measuring about 40cm in length, slightly smaller than a crow.
Known as a winter bird, the Black-headed Gull arrives in Japan towards the end of autumn. Come spring, they undergo a transformation; their heads turn a dark chocolate brown, almost appearing like a different bird. In spring, the head turns jet black, signaling their readiness for breeding. Juveniles under one year old do not undergo this change. During summer, they breed in northern regions like Siberia and Kamchatka, returning to Tokyo’s skies afterward.
The Black-headed Gull was chosen as the bird of Tokyo citizens in 1965, decided by a vote of the residents. It has since become one of the iconic birds of Tokyo, cherished by many. Additionally, in Japanese classical literature, particularly in the “Ise Monogatari,” the term “miyakodori” (capital bird) is believed to refer to the Black-headed Gull. It’s described in the text as having a white body and red beak, skimming over water surfaces and catching fish.
The Black-headed Gull can be considered a winter tradition in Tokyo. Its elegant flight over waterways is a reminder of the beauty of nature in the urban landscape. Next time you spot one, take a moment to appreciate its charming appearance. Rediscover the allure of the Black-headed Gull, a small white messenger thriving in the city!
