ExploreBirds

Black-tailed Gull

Larus crassirostris

The Black-tailed Gull is a playful bird found near the sea. It has a striking black tail and loves to catch fish and play in the waves. These gulls are often seen flying in groups, making them a fun sight at the beach!

Habitat: Coastal areas

Appearance

The Black-tailed Gull has a striking white head and body with a dark grey back and wings. Its name comes from the distinct black band across its otherwise white tail. It sports a bright yellow bill with a black ring and a red tip, and yellow legs.

KingdomAnimaliaPhylumChordataClassAvesOrderCharadriiformesFamilyLaridaeGenusLarus
Black-tailed Gull
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Black-tailed Gull

Category

Birds

Rarity

Common

Danger

1/5 · Very low

Snaps

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Interesting facts

Some Black-tailed Gulls can live for over 20 years in the wild!

Their loud calls often sound like 'mew-mew' or 'ha-ha-ha' echoing along the shore!

These gulls are the most common type seen flying around Japan's coasts.

They sometimes 'foot-paddle' in shallow water to stir up tasty hidden critters.

Special abilities

Ability

Tail Stripe Flash

Black-tailed Gulls have a bold black band on their tail that might flash during flight, confusing predators and aiding escape.

Ability

Sharp Ocean Eyes

Black-tailed Gulls have super-sharp eyesight that helps them spot tiny fish and food from high above the shimmering water.

Ability

Wave Rider Wings

Black-tailed Gulls have strong, angled wings that help them glide effortlessly on ocean winds to find food along the coast.

Ability

Loud Colony Call

Black-tailed Gulls make loud, distinctive calls that help them communicate warnings and keep track of each other in noisy colonies.

Measurements & details

Length
43-50 cm
Wingspan
126-130 cm
Weight
0.48-0.65 kg
Lifespan
10-20 years
Top Speed
55 km/h
Clutch Size
2-3
Incubation
24-25 days

Diet & Feeding

These adaptable gulls feast on fish, ocean critters, and sometimes snacks from humans near the coast!

Primary Foods

  • fish
  • marine worms
  • crabs
  • shrimp
  • discarded food

Foraging Method

  • Foraging

Ecological connections

eats

Japanese Anchovy

Engraulis japonicus

Often preys on schools of these small fish near the surface.

eats

Asian Shore Crab

Hemigrapsus sanguineus

Forages for these crabs and other crustaceans along the shoreline.

eaten by

Steller's Sea Eagle

Haliaeetus pelagicus

Eggs and chicks are sometimes taken by this large coastal raptor.

eaten by

Brown Rat

Rattus norvegicus

Rats frequently raid nesting colonies for eggs and vulnerable chicks.

Traits

Also known as

No aliases listed yet.

Collections

Safety

Danger

1/5 · Very low

Always watch birds from a distance and do not feed them, as it can be harmful.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is Black-tailed Gull?

43-50 cm

What is Black-tailed Gull's wingspan?

126-130 cm

How much does Black-tailed Gull weigh?

0.48-0.65 kg

How long does Black-tailed Gull live?

10-20 years

How fast can Black-tailed Gull move?

55 km/h

What does Black-tailed Gull eat?

These adaptable gulls feast on fish, ocean critters, and sometimes snacks from humans near the coast!

Where is Black-tailed Gull usually found?

Coastal areas

How does Black-tailed Gull hunt?

Foraging

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