Black-tailed Gull
NameBlack-tailed Gull
Common NameBlack-tailed Gull
Scientific NameLarus crassirostris
FamilyLaridae
Wingspan (cm)127
Length (cm)46.5
Weight (g)565
Plumage DetailsAdult plumage features a white head, neck, and underparts. The back and upperwings are dark grey, with black primary feathers tipped white. The tail is entirely black. The bill is yellow with a black band near the tip and a red spot at the very tip. Legs are yellow, and the eyes are pale yellow with a red orbital ring.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include harsh, nasal 'mewing' calls and a series of 'kak-kak-kak' notes, typical of many gull species.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatscoastal, urban, wetland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds along the coasts of East Asia, including Japan, Korea, China, and Russia. Winters south to Taiwan and Hong Kong.
Identifying Featuresentirely black tail, yellow bill with black band and red tip, yellow legs, dark grey mantle, pale yellow eye with red orbital ring
Description
The Black-tailed Gull is a medium-sized gull with a distinctive entirely black tail. It is typically found in coastal areas of East Asia, often foraging along shorelines or in harbors. This species exhibits a classic gull appearance with a white head and underparts contrasting with a dark grey back.
