Species · GBIF taxon 2481172
Great Black-backed Gull
Larus marinusAlso known as Greater Black-backed Gull, Coffin-carrier, Minister Gull
Great black-backed gulls are the undisputed giants of the gull world, commanding Atlantic coastlines with their massive size and formidable, predatory presence. These apex scavengers and hunters routinely pirate food from other seabirds and even prey upon adult puffins and ducks. Their deep, barking calls echo across rocky nesting cliffs, where mated pairs aggressively defend their territories from any intruders.
CoastalPredatoryMarine
Licensed reference(c) Mila C., some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Mila C. · cc-by
—observations
—countries
—peak records
Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Diet & prey
- Atlantic Herring
- Atlantic Puffin
- Rock Crab
Predators
- Bald Eagle
- Great Horned Owl
- Red Fox
ThreatsMarine pollution, plastic ingestion, oil spills, and fluctuations in commercial fish stocks
HabitatsRocky coasts, sandy beaches, estuaries, offshore islands, and open ocean
Life span15 to 25 years
Size / weightNot available
Classification
- FamilyLaridae
- SpeciesLarus marinus
Range data is not available yet.
Interaction riskLow
- Low
- Moderate
- High
- Very high
- Why interaction risk is low
- Capable of delivering a powerful bite if cornered or nesting; observe from a respectful distance.
- Why it is dangerous
- Possesses a massive, powerful bill capable of inflicting deep cuts and bruises if the bird is cornered or defending its nest.
- How to recognize a risky encounter
- Distinguished by its immense size, dark charcoal-black back, and thick yellow bill with a red spot near the tip.
- What to do
- Never attempt to handle a wild gull; if an injured bird is found, contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator.
Responsible observation
- Keep Distance: Maintain a respectful distance, especially during the spring nesting season when they aggressively defend territories.
- Secure Food: Avoid feeding them and secure trash, as they quickly learn to associate humans with easy meals.
Frequent Companion Rhododendrites / CC BY-SA 4.0 · cc-by-sa
Prey Charles J. Sharp / CC BY-SA 4.0 · cc-by-sa
Close Relative (c) Donald Davesne, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Donald Davesne · cc-by
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