It is sometimes considered as a separate species (Larus heuglini) but is now usually treated as a subspecies of the lesser black-backed gull.

Small numbers are seen in Southeast Asia, it has been recorded in South Africa and it may occur as a vagrant in Western Europe.

They are large gulls with a rounded head, strong bill and long legs and wings.

[4] The back and wings are dark grey, variable in shade but often similar to the graelsii race of the slightly smaller lesser black-backed gull.

Moulting takes place later than in most of their relatives so birds still have unstreaked heads and worn primaries in September and October.