Lesser Black-backed Gull
Larus fuscus
Also known as: Lesser Black-back Gull, Lesser Black-back
The Lesser Black-backed Gull (Larus fuscus) is a medium-to-large gull native to Europe and Western Asia, migrating south in winter to Africa and Southern Asia. Characterized by its dark slate-grey back and wings, white underparts, yellow bill with a red spot, and bright yellow legs, it is slightly smaller and more slender than the Herring Gull. They are highly adaptable, omnivorous birds that are common along coasts, estuaries, inland waterways, and increasingly in urban settings.
Lesser Black-backed Gull Quick Facts
Frequently Asked Questions About the Lesser Black-backed Gull
Yes, the Lesser Black-backed Gull is highly migratory or a partial migrant, with northern populations traveling to Africa and Southern Asia for winter.
The Lesser Black-backed Gull breeds in Europe and Western Asia, and is increasingly observed visiting eastern North America.
The Lesser Black-backed Gull feeds on a varied diet of fish, insects, marine invertebrates, small mammals, eggs, and human refuse, acting as a generalist omnivore.
The Lesser Black-backed Gull is listed as Least Concern, though local breeding populations are monitored for threats like avian influenza and disturbance.
The Lesser Black-backed Gull is usually highly gregarious (flocks and breeding colonies).
The Lesser Black-backed Gull is typically diurnal.
The main threats facing the Lesser Black-backed Gull include Avian influenza, Pollution, Depletion of fish stocks, and Disturbance at breeding colonies.
The Lesser Black-backed Gull population trend is currently stable.
Well-known places to look for the Lesser Black-backed Gull include Flat Holm Island (Wales), Ijmuiden (Netherlands), and Coastal reservoirs in the UK.
Natural predators of the Lesser Black-backed Gull include Great black-backed gulls, Red foxes (on nests), and Large birds of prey (on eggs/chicks).
A common and highly adaptable seabird in Europe, known for its long-distance migrations and increasingly urban nesting habits.
The Lesser Black-backed Gull is part of the Laridae family and a Charadriiformes order.
The Lesser Black-backed Gull weighs about 0.8 kg, stands around 55 cm tall, reaches about 55 cm in length, and has a wingspan of about 135 cm.
The Lesser Black-backed Gull can reach speeds of around 60 km/h.
