Great Black-backed Gull
Larus marinus
Conservation Status
Least ConcernAves · Charadriiformes · Laridae
About
The great black-backed gull is the largest member of the gull and tern family Laridae. It is a very aggressive hunter, pirate and scavenger which breeds on the North Atlantic coasts and islands of northern Europe and northeastern North America. Southern populations are generally sedentary, while those breeding in the far north migrate farther south in winter. A few also move inland to large lakes and reservoirs. The adult has a white head, neck and underparts, dark blackish-grey wings and back, pink legs and the bill yellow with a red spot.
Fun Fact
The great black-backed gull (Larus marinus) is the largest member of the gull and tern family Laridae.
Quick Facts
Habitat
Found breeding in coastal areas from the extreme northwest portion of Russia, through much of coastal Scandinavia, on the Baltic Sea coasts, to the coasts of northwestern France, the United Kingdom and Ireland.
Diet
Scavenger
Lifespan
44 years
Threats
- Habitat Change
- Human Disturbance