Species · GBIF taxon 2481174
Lesser Black-backed Gull
Larus fuscusAlso known as Baltic Gull, Dark-backed Gull
Lesser Black-backed Gulls are elegant, medium-large seabirds characterized by their dark charcoal-grey to black wings, bright yellow legs, and a red spot on their lower bill. These highly adaptable opportunists excel at soaring along coastlines, following fishing vessels, and foraging in agricultural fields or urban landfills. During the breeding season, they gather in dense, noisy colonies on coastal cliffs, grassy islands, and increasingly on city rooftops.
MigratoryCoastalAdaptable
- diet
- Omnivorous, feeding on fish, aquatic invertebrates, insects, carrion, refuse, and small rodents
- family
- Laridae
- threats
- Habitat disturbance, marine pollution, overfishing reducing prey, and culling in some urban areas
- life Span
- 15 to 25 years
LC
Capable of delivering a painful bite or swoop if defending nests; observe from a respectful distance.
While globally secure, more than half of the UK population breeds at fewer than ten highly vulnerable sites.
Keep a wide distance from nesting colonies between April and July to prevent nest abandonment.- Leg Coloration: Look for the bright yellow legs to distinguish adults from the pink-legged Herring Gull.
- Nesting Etiquette: Avoid entering breeding colonies on foot, as adults will aggressively dive-bomb intruders to protect their chicks.
- Feeding Warning: Refrain from offering food, which encourages aggressive begging behavior and unhealthy urban scavenging habits.