Great Black-backed Gull
NameGreat Black-backed Gull
Common NameGreat Black-backed Gull
Scientific NameLarus marinus
FamilyLaridae
Wingspan (cm)160
Length (cm)71.5
Weight (g)1500
Plumage DetailsAdults have a white head, neck, underparts, and tail. The back and upperwings are dark slate-gray to black, with white tips on the primary feathers. The large yellow bill features a prominent red spot on the lower mandible, and the legs are pinkish.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include deep, hoarse 'ga-ga-ga' calls, often described as a barking or laughing sound, along with various 'klew' and 'kow' notes.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatscoastal, urban, wetland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds along the North Atlantic coasts of Europe and North America, from northeastern North America across Greenland, Iceland, and northern Europe. Winters south to the Mediterranean Sea and the Caribbean.
Identifying FeaturesVery large size, Dark slate-gray to black back and upperwings, White head and underparts, Large yellow bill with red spot, Pinkish legs
Description
The Great Black-backed Gull is the largest gull species globally, easily recognized by its striking black back and wings contrasting with a pure white body. It is a powerful and opportunistic predator and scavenger, frequently found along coastlines and at sea.
