Caspian Gull, Piaski Małe, West Pomeranian Voivodeship, Poland
Caspian Gull

Caspian Gull

Larus cachinnans

1photos

Description

The Caspian Gull is a large, graceful bird known for its long, straight-edged bill, sloping forehead, and relatively small dark eye, which gives it a somewhat fierce look. Adult gulls have pale grey upper parts, darker than the Common Gull but lighter than the Lesser Black-backed Gull. Their long black wing tips have only a little white spotting. The legs are usually yellowish and longer than those of similar gulls, giving the bird a slim appearance. When flying, you can notice its long wings and relatively small head. This gull mainly lives in eastern Europe, breeding from the Baltic Sea down to the Black and Caspian Seas. However, more are being seen in Britain, especially at rubbish dumps and reservoirs during the winter. Most sightings in Britain happen between autumn and spring along the east and south coasts. The Caspian Gull is often found near the coast, around large lakes and rivers, at rubbish tips, and in towns. It frequently mixes with other large gulls in groups.

Vital statistics

  • Body length

    55 - 68 cm

  • Weight

    0.8 - 1.4 kg

  • Wingspan

    140 - 170 cm

Diet
  • Fish50%
  • Other Invertebrates20%
  • Carrion15%
  • Vertebrates10%
  • Insects5%
Habitat
CoastalFreshwaterUrbanWetlands