This species differs from the slightly larger grey-headed gull in its thinner, darker bill, deeper red legs, paler, plainer head, and dark eyes.

They differ from same-age grey-headed gulls in that they lack a black terminal tail band, less dark areas in the wings, darker legs, and a white head.

[5][9] The gull is a non-migratory breeding resident endemic to the Atlantic Ocean coastline of South Africa and Namibia.

About one half of the total population, currently estimated at 30,000 birds, lives within the Greater Cape Town area.

[9] The species is omnivorous like most Larus gulls, and they will scavenge at tips and feed on scraps as well as seeking suitable small prey, often by wading in shallow water.