Slaty-backed Gull

Overview

The Larus schistisagus is a large, white-headed gull that breeds on the north-eastern coast of the Palearctic but travels widely during non-breeding seasons. It is the fourth-largest gull species, tied with the yellow-footed gull, and is sometimes known as the Pacific gull.

Identification

• Plumage features a white head, belly, and tail contrasted with a dark slaty-gray back and wings that have a broad white trailing edge.
• The body appears more stout with a 'pot-bellied' appearance, and the legs are pink and short compared to similar-looking gulls.
• The bill is yellow with an orange-red subterminal spot, and the eyes are yellow surrounded by purple to deep pink orbital skin.
• Wing markings include a 'string of pearls' pattern on the mid-primaries and white spots called mirrors on the outer primaries.

Habitat

Native to the Pacific coast of northeastern Asia, the species has strayed to various locations in North America, including Alaska, New England, and Texas. It has also been spotted in Europe, with only three previous occurrences before a bird was observed in Finland in 2012.

Did you know?

The specific name schistisagus derives from Neo-Latin schistus, meaning 'slate', and Latin sagus, meaning 'cloak'.