Great black-backed gull call: Niels Van Doninck, Xeno-canto
Great black-backed gull
Great black-backed gull
Larus marinus
The largest gull in the world, with a wingspan of up to 1.6 metres, accompanied by a very powerful beak that makes them an intimidating predator.
All about the great black-backed gull
Great black-backed gulls are large and powerful gulls. They are known for sometimes bullying other birds to steal their food! They will eat most things but usually prefer fish, crustaceans and shellfish. They have also been known to eat birds and mammals – including rabbits which they can swallow down in one!
This species of gull is not commonly found inland unlike other species, such as the herring gull, and instead is more likely to be seen out on the coast. Besides their large size, they are most distinguishable by their dark grey backs and pink legs.
Local Spotlight
Great black-backed gulls can be found all around the coast, particularly during the breeding season.
Conservation status
This species of gull is amber listed in the UK.
Did you know?
Due to their size these birds have relatively few predators, however they can sometimes be hunted by creatures such as white-tailed eagles and sharks and orca out at sea.
