Larus canus
The Common Gull, *Larus canus*, is a graceful, medium-sized seabird known for its more refined appearance compared to its larger, bolder relatives. Adults measure approximately 40-46 cm in length with a wingspan of 110-125 cm and weigh between 290-550 grams. In breeding plumage, it sports a pristine white head and underparts, a pearl-grey mantle, and distinctive black wingtips adorned with prominent white 'mirrors' or 'windows'. Its slender bill is yellowish-green, as are its legs, contributi...
Common Gulls inhabit coastal areas, estuaries, and inland wetlands during breeding, often utilizing agricultural fields, urban parks, and open country for foraging and roosting at low elevations.
This omnivorous species feeds on a wide range of prey, including earthworms, insects, fish, crustaceans, mollusks, small rodents, carrion, offal, eggs, berries, and seeds, primarily obtained through gleaning, surface dipping, and scavenging.
Common Gulls are largely diurnal, forming large communal roosts on water bodies or secluded ground at night. Their foraging strategies are highly opportunistic and varied; they glean invertebrates from the surface, probe soft ground, hawk insects in the air, and scavenge carrion or refuse, often ...
The Common Gull (*Larus canus*) boasts an extensive breeding range across the northern Palearctic. It nests from Iceland and the British Isles eastward through Scandinavia, the Baltic region, European Russia, Siberia, and into Kamchatka and the Russian Far East. Significant breeding populations o...
Least Concern
- The scientific name 'canus' is Latin for 'hoary' or 'grey-haired', referring to its pale grey mantle. - Known for its 'gentle' or 'mewing' calls, which give rise to the North American common name 'Mew Gull' for its closely related counterpart, *Larus brachyrhynchus*. - They are often seen follo...