A flock of black-headed gulls (Chroicocephalus ridibundus), migratory seabirds from the northern hemisphere, has been sighted along the Bagmati River near Kupondole and Thapathali in Kathmandu.

According to ornithologists, these gulls—known as winter visitors—migrate southwards from Siberia, northern Europe, Mongolia, and Russia as temperatures drop in the Arctic region.

“The black-headed gull is one of five gull species recorded in Nepal. They travel long distances and stop here en route to southern destinations,” said ornithologist Krishna Prasad Bhusal.

The gulls are easily recognisable by their white bodies, greyish wings, red beaks and legs, and a distinct dark patch behind the ears—remnants of their summer plumage. They typically feed on small fish, insects, and waste materials found near rivers and lakes.