Birds
Great Black-backed Gull
Larus marinus · also called great black-backed gulls
Tearing into prey with a heavy, powerful bill that few other gulls could match, a great black-backed gull lives up to its status as the largest member of the entire gull family, a jet-black-backed predator capable of killing seabirds nearly its own size.
Overview
The great black-backed gull, Larus marinus, is the largest gull species in the world, native to coastal habitat across the North Atlantic region from eastern North America to western Europe. Its record-holding size, genuinely predatory habits toward other seabirds and small mammals, and striking jet-black back make it one of the most physically imposing and behaviourally distinct members of the entire gull family.
Not just a scavenger
While most gulls make their living scavenging and opportunistic feeding, the great black-backed gull’s size and heavy bill let it take a genuinely predatory path, hunting other seabirds, rabbits, and ducklings rather than relying solely on carrion and leftovers.
Status
Least Concern, remaining present and stable across suitable coastal habitat throughout the North Atlantic region.
Great Black-backed Gull: common questions
How big is the great black-backed gull compared to other gulls?
This species is the largest gull in the world, weighing up to 2 kilograms with a wingspan approaching 1.7 metres, considerably bigger and more powerfully built than most other gull species it shares coastlines with.
What does the great black-backed gull eat?
This species eats fish, carrion, and eggs like many gulls, but is also a powerful predator capable of killing and eating other seabirds, rabbits, and ducklings, prey that most other gull species would not attempt to take.
How can you tell a great black-backed gull from other large gulls?
This species can be identified by its jet-black back and upperwings, which contrast sharply with its white head and underparts, along with its notably large size and heavy, powerful bill.
Where does the great black-backed gull live?
This species breeds along rocky coastlines and islands across the North Atlantic, from eastern North America to western Europe, favouring coastal habitat throughout the region.