The head of the Vega gull is heavily streaked with brown in winter, especially on the back and sides of the neck forming a collar.

Almost the full body of first- and second-winter Vega gulls displays darker brown flecks and streaks.

They are sometimes considered to be a separate subspecies named Birula's gull (Larus vegae birulai).

[4] Vega gulls breed in northeastern Siberia, and migrate south to winter in Japan, Korea, eastern China, and Taiwan.

In their winter range they are typically found in harbours, on rocky shores and at river mouths.