Black-billed Gull
NameBlack-billed Gull
Common NameBlack-billed Gull
Scientific NameChroicocephalus bulleri
FamilyLaridae
Wingspan (cm)88.5
Length (cm)36.5
Weight (g)240
Plumage DetailsAdults have a pure white head, neck, and underparts, with a pale grey back and upperwings. The primary wing feathers are black with prominent white tips and a distinct white 'mirror' patch on the outer primaries. The tail is white with black subterminal markings on the outer feathers. The bill is slender and entirely black, and the legs are black. The eyes are bright red, often surrounded by a red orbital ring.
Vocalization / CallKnown for a distinctive, high-pitched 'kwee-er' call, often described as a 'laughing' or 'mewing' sound. They also produce various alarm calls and contact calls, especially within their noisy breeding colonies.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatswetland, coastal, grassland
Conservation Statusendangered
Geographic RangeEndemic to New Zealand, primarily found on the South Island, with smaller populations on the North Island. They breed on shingle banks of braided rivers and lakes, and disperse to coastal areas, estuaries, and agricultural fields during non-breeding seasons.
Identifying Featuresslender black bill, bright red eyes, white head and body, pale grey back, black primary feathers with white tips and mirror, black legs, distinctive patterned tail
Description
The Black-billed Gull is a medium-sized gull endemic to New Zealand, characterized by its slender black bill and striking red eyes. It typically has a white head and body, a pale grey back, and distinctive black and white patterns on its wingtips and tail. These gulls are highly social, often nesting in large colonies on braided riverbeds.
