Slaty-backed Gull
NameSlaty-backed Gull
Common NameSlaty-backed Gull
Scientific NameLarus schistisagus
FamilyLaridae
Wingspan (cm)140
Length (cm)61
Weight (g)1350
Plumage DetailsAdults have a white head, neck, underparts, and tail. The mantle and upperwings are a dark slaty-gray, appearing almost black, with white trailing edges and prominent white 'mirrors' on the primary tips. The stout bill is yellow with a distinct red spot on the gonys (lower mandible), and the legs are pink.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include deep, raucous 'kyow' or 'kya-kya-kya' calls, typical of large gulls but often described as deeper or harsher. They also emit various alarm calls and long calls.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatscoastal, urban, wetland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds along the coasts of Northeast Asia, including Sakhalin, Kamchatka, the Kuril Islands, and Hokkaido. Winters south to Japan, Korea, and coastal China, with occasional vagrants recorded further afield.
Identifying FeaturesDark slaty-gray mantle and upperwings, White head, underparts, and tail, Stout yellow bill with red spot on lower mandible, Pink legs, Large size
Description
A large gull characterized by its dark slaty-gray back and wings, contrasting sharply with its pure white head and underparts. It possesses a robust yellow bill with a distinctive red spot on the lower mandible and pink legs. These opportunistic feeders are commonly found along coastlines and in urban environments.
