Quick field summary
The Great black-backed gull is the UK's largest gull, notable for its striking black back and wings, robust size, and powerful presence along coasts and inland waters.
How to identify Great black-backed gull
Largest gull in the UK with a bulky body and a heavy bill. Head, neck and underparts white, with a sharply contrasting very dark grey-black back and wings. Legs pinkish. Strong flight with steady wing beats.
- Large size, up to 76 cm length
- Blackish-grey back and upperwings
- White head and underparts
- Heavy yellowish bill with red spot
- Pink legs and feet
Habitat, range and timing
Common along rocky coasts, harbours, and around large inland lakes, especially in eastern and southern England.
Resident breeder around UK coasts, especially common on the east coast and parts of the south coast; winters widely coastal and inland.
- East Anglia
- Southeast England
- Scottish east coast
- Northwest England coasts
- Southwest England coasts
Song, movement and nesting
Harsh, loud, barking call often heard; aggressive and dominant behaviour near nests.
Breeds on isolated coastal islands and cliffs, building large nests from seaweed and vegetation, often in loose colonies.
Photos and plumage details
Similar birds
Use shape, plumage and habitat together to separate close matches in the field.
Lesser black-backed gull
Compare the key markings, proportions and likely habitat before confirming your sighting.
View bird profile Look-alike guideHerring gull
Compare the key markings, proportions and likely habitat before confirming your sighting.
View bird profile Look-alike guideCommon gull
Compare the key markings, proportions and likely habitat before confirming your sighting.
View bird profileDiscover more British birds
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Common questions
How can I distinguish Great black-backed gulls from other gulls?
They are the largest UK gulls with very dark grey-black backs and strong yellow bills with a red spot.
Are Great black-backed gulls aggressive?
Yes, especially around their nests, they can be very territorial and aggressive.
Where do Great black-backed gulls breed?
They breed mainly on rocky coasts, islands, and cliffs around the UK coast.
What do Great black-backed gulls eat?
Their diet includes fish, carrion, small mammals, and occasionally other birds.
Are Great black-backed gulls common in urban areas?
They are primarily coastal but can occasionally be found scavenging inland or in harbours.