Herring Gull
Image: Анна Мазур (cc-by-nc)
NameHerring Gull
Common NameHerring Gull
Scientific NameLarus argentatus
FamilyLaridae
Wingspan (cm)140
Length (cm)60
Weight (g)975
Plumage DetailsAdults have a white head, neck, underparts, and tail, with a pale grey back and upperwings. The wingtips are black with prominent white spots (mirrors). The bill is yellow with a red spot on the lower mandible, and the eyes are pale yellow with a red orbital ring.
Vocalization / CallKnown for its loud, raucous calls, including a distinctive 'kyow' or 'hee-ow' call, and a long, laughing 'gag-gag-gag' series often given in flight or when agitated.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatscoastal, urban, landfills, agricultural fields, lakes, rivers
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across the Northern Hemisphere, breeding in coastal and inland areas of North America, Europe, and Asia, and migrating south for winter.
Identifying Featureslarge size, pale grey back, white head and underparts, yellow bill with red spot, pale eyes, black wingtips with white mirrors
Description
The Herring Gull is a large, common gull species found across temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere. It is an opportunistic feeder, often seen scavenging in coastal areas, urban environments, and landfills, adapting well to human presence.
