Gulls (Laridae)

Armenian Gull (Larus armenicus) - HBW 3, p. 610

French: Goéland d'Arménie German: Armenienmöwe Spanish: Gaviota Armenia

Taxonomy: Larus armenicus Buturlin, 1934, Lake Sevan, Armenia.
Historically treated as a race of L. argentatus, but smaller, with shorter bill; black band across both mandibles diagnostic, but not mentioned in original description. Also has a delayed moult. Monotypic.

Distribution: Caucasus through Armenia to E Turkey and NW Iran. Winters in SE Black Sea, E Mediterranean and N Red Sea.