Larus marinus
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Mass
~2 kg
Habitat
Coastal areas
Diet
Omnivore
How to recognize it
The Great Black-backed Gull is hard to miss: heavy, powerful, and strikingly bold. Adults stand out by the strong contrast of a pale body and dark wings, along with a large bill that gives them a very solid look.
It behaves like an opportunist and a bully, quick to hunt, steal food, or take whatever is easy to swallow. Its voice is deep and rough, and that heavy, blunt sound fits its whole manner.
It lives along North Atlantic coasts and islands, and some populations move south in winter while others stay put. It feeds mainly on fish, but also takes scraps, insects, small animals, eggs, and other available food, so it may turn up near dumps, shores, or large inland waters.
Quick Facts
Listen to the call
The Great Black-backed Gull is hard to miss: heavy, powerful, and strikingly bold. Adults stand out by the strong contrast of a pale body and dark wings, along with a large bill that gives them a very solid look.
It behaves like an opportunist and a bully, quick to hunt, steal food, or take whatever is easy to swallow. Its voice is deep and rough, and that heavy, blunt sound fits its whole manner.
It lives along North Atlantic coasts and islands, and some populations move south in winter while others stay put. It feeds mainly on fish, but also takes scraps, insects, small animals, eggs, and other available food, so it may turn up near dumps, shores, or large inland waters.
