The Great Black-backed Gull is the largest gull in the world, a powerful predator as well as scavenger that readily kills and eats other seabirds including ducks and puffins. Its jet-black back contrasts with its white body and pink legs. It has expanded significantly southward along the Atlantic Coast over the past century.
Best time to see a Great Black-backed Gull
The best time to see a Great Black-backed Gull is May–November, when about 62% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 15,897 research-grade iNaturalist observations.
Not certain it is a Great Black-backed Gull? What bird is this? walks through what to check first and the lookalikes that catch people out.
Recent Great Black-backed Gull sightings near you
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