Great Black-backed Gull
Larus marinus
Tap image to enlarge · Wikimedia Commons
Overview
The Great Black-backed Gull is the largest gull in the world — a massive, powerful bird that dominates any flock it joins and will readily kill other seabirds including Puffins, Kittiwakes and Razorbills. One or two usually lurk in any large gull roost on the Sefton Coast. The jet-black back (blacker than any other gull), massive bill and sheer bulk make them instantly identifiable once you've seen them.
At a Glance
| Order | Charadriiformes |
| Family | Laridae |
| Habitat | Beach · Estuary · Open sea · Coastal lagoon |
| Diet | Fish, carrion, seabirds, eggs, scraps — apex predator among gulls |
| UK population | Around 17,000 pairs; green-listed |
| Sefton Coast | Regular in small numbers; usually 1–10 birds in any large gull flock |
| Conservation | UK Green List |
Where to See It
Beach, Marshside RSPB, estuary. Usually in small numbers in gull flocks.
Identification
Very large gull. Jet-black back and wings. Pink legs. Massive yellow bill with red spot. White head (faint streaking in winter). In flight, white mirrors in black wingtips. Much larger than Lesser Black-backed.
Viewing & Photography Tips
Look for the largest, blackest-backed bird in any gull flock. They tend to stand apart from other gulls and dominate any food source.
Conservation Status
UK Green List
This species is on the UK Green List, indicating a healthy population status in the UK context. It remains an important component of Sefton Coast biodiversity.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Great Black-backed Gull eat?
Great Black-backed Gulls are apex predators among seabirds, eating virtually anything. They kill and eat adult Puffins, Razorbills and Kittiwakes, swallowing them whole or in large pieces. They steal food from other gulls, raid other birds' nests and eat everything from fish and carrion to small rabbits and starlings. Their massive bill enables them to tear open carcasses and kill prey larger than themselves.
Related Species
Plan your visit to the Sefton Coast
Marshside RSPB, Formby pinewoods, Ainsdale NNR — practical guides to getting there, what to bring, and the best spots for each season.