Larus marinus
The Great Black-backed Gull is the largest gull species. Its distinctive black back and wings contrast sharply with its white head, neck, and underparts. Its powerful yellow bill has a red spot on the lower mandible, and its legs are pink.
Adults maintain this plumage year-round, while juveniles are mottled brown and gradually acquire adult plumage over four years. There is no significant difference between male and female appearance.
Apart from their larger size, these gulls appear similar to other Larus species like the Herring Gull (gray back) and Lesser Black-backed Gull (yellow legs).
Length
64cm to 79cm
Wingspan
150cm to 170cm
Weight
1.05kg to 2.5kg
Males and females have similar plumage
Primary Colour
White Black
Secondary Colour
Grey
Beak Colour
Yellow
Leg Colour
Pink
Woodland
Garden
Wetland
Coastal
Urban
Farmland
Grassland
Desert
Tundra
Rainforest
Mountain
Savanna
Great Black-backed Gulls primarily inhabit coastal areas, including rocky shores, estuaries, and harbors. They are found along North America's and Europe's Atlantic coasts, from the Arctic to the Mediterranean.
In North America, they are common along the eastern seaboard, while in Europe, they are widespread in the UK, Ireland, and Scandinavia. Some populations move inland during winter, frequenting large lakes and reservoirs.
Sea level to 100 meters
Temperate, Subarctic
This map gives you a rough idea of where you might spot a Great Black-backed Gull. The coloured areas show countries where these birds have been seen.
A few things to keep in mind:
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