Herring Gull
Image: <a href="//commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:Lukasz_Lukomski" title="User:Lukasz Lukomski">Lukasz Lukomski</a> (CC BY-SA 3.0)
NameHerring Gull
Common NameHerring Gull
Scientific NameLarus argentatus
FamilyLaridae
Wingspan (cm)140
Length (cm)61
Weight (g)1100
Plumage DetailsAdults have a white head, neck, and underparts, with a pale grey back and upperwings. The wingtips are black with prominent white 'mirrors' or spots. The bill is yellow with a distinctive red spot on the lower mandible, and the legs are pink.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a loud, raucous 'kyow' call, a series of 'ga-ga-ga' notes, and a long, drawn-out 'yee-ow' often given in flight or as an alarm.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatscoastal, cliffs, estuaries, harbors, landfills, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across the North Atlantic, breeding in North America, Europe, and parts of Asia. It is found along coastlines, inland lakes, and urban areas throughout its range.
Identifying FeaturesLarge size, Grey back and white underparts, Yellow bill with red spot on lower mandible, Pink legs, Black wingtips with white spots
Description
The Herring Gull is a large, robust gull commonly found in coastal and inland areas. Adults display a classic gull pattern of white head and underparts with a grey back and wings, often seen scavenging or soaring over water.
