Herring Gull
Image: Norre007 (cc-by-nc)
NameHerring Gull
Common NameHerring Gull
Scientific NameLarus argentatus
FamilyLaridae
Wingspan (cm)148
Length (cm)61
Weight (g)1375
Plumage DetailsAdults have a white head, neck, and underparts, a medium grey back, and black wingtips with white spots. Their bill is yellow with a red spot on the lower mandible, and legs are pinkish. Juveniles are heavily mottled brown and grey overall, with a dark bill and dark legs, gradually molting into adult plumage over 3-4 years.
Vocalization / CallKnown for a variety of loud, raucous calls, including a distinctive 'laughing' call, a long 'kyow-kyow-kyow' series, and alarm calls. They also produce shorter 'ga-ga-ga' notes.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatscoastal, beaches, harbors, estuaries, landfills, agricultural fields, urban areas, inland lakes, rivers
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across the Northern Hemisphere, breeding along coasts and large inland waters in North America, Europe, and Asia. Many populations are migratory, moving south for winter.
Identifying FeaturesLarge size, Mottled brown juvenile plumage (as seen in image), Grey back and white underparts in adults, Yellow bill with red spot (adults), Dark bill and legs in juveniles, Loud, 'laughing' calls, Often found in coastal or human-modified environments
Description
The Herring Gull is a large, common gull species often found in coastal and urban environments. Juveniles, like those pictured, exhibit mottled brown plumage, gradually transitioning to the adult's distinctive grey and white over several years. They are highly opportunistic feeders, known for their scavenging behavior.
