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ViewsGreat Black-backed GullFrom Opus
[edit] IdentificationL. 61-74 cm
[edit] Adults
[edit] Immature
They take at least four years to reach maturity, development in this species being somewhat slower than that of other large gulls. [edit] Similar SpeciesLesser Black-backed Gull, which is smaller, has a lighter back and yellow legs. [edit] DistributionBreeds on the European and North American coasts and islands of the North Atlantic. Migratory in the north but resident or dispersive over most of range. In winter range more extensive in Britain and on coasts from the southern Baltic to the western Mediterranean. Vagrant to most European and Middle Eastern countries out of normal range, also the Azores, Madeira, Canary Islands, North-West Africa and Malta. [edit] TaxonomyThis is a monotypic species[1]. [edit] HabitatBreeds on rocky coasts, islets and stacks, on inland freshwaters in some areas. Nests on buildings in some areas and also low flats coasts where not persecuted. When not breeding on coasts and at sea over continental shelf, also frequents fishing harbours, refuse-tips and playing fields. [edit] BehaviourThese are omnivores like most Larus gulls, and they will scavenge as well as seeking suitable small prey. They frequently rob other seabirds of their catch. It can swallow a puffin or a small wild duck whole. [edit] BreedingThey breed in small colonies, or alone. The ground nest is lined and positioned on cliff tops or rocky stacks. The clutch consists of 3-5 eggs. [edit] VocalisationA deep "laughing" cry. Listen in an external program [edit] References
[edit] External Links
Categories: Birds | Larus | Bird Songs | Videos
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