Great Black-backed Gull

ocean birds · fierce hunters · North Atlantic

Biggest gull ever. The great black-backed gull is the largest member of the entire gull and tern family, making it the king of gulls.

Aggressive hunter. This gull is a very aggressive hunter, pirate, and scavenger, meaning it chases other birds, steals their food, and eats whatever it can find.

North Atlantic homes. These gulls breed on the coasts and islands of northern Europe and northeastern North America, settling down where the ocean meets the land.

Some travel south. Gulls from the far north migrate to warmer places in winter, but those living in the south usually stay put all year long.

Striking looks. Adult great black-backed gulls have white heads and bellies with dark blackish-grey wings, pink legs, and a yellow bill with a bright red spot.