Pacific Gull

The Pacific gull (Larus pacificus) is a majestic and robust seabird, easily distinguished by its impressive size and striking plumage. This species is the largest gull found along the Australian coastline, with a length ranging from 58 to 66 cm and a wingspan stretching from 137 to 157 cm. Adults boast a predominantly white body contrasted by dark wings and back. A notable feature is their thick, powerful bill, which is yellow with a red tip, setting them apart from other gulls.

Identification Tips

When identifying the Pacific gull, look for its large size and heavy build. The adult's white plumage, dark wings, and back are key characteristics, along with the distinctive yellow bill with a red tip. Juveniles present a mottled brown appearance and gradually acquire the adult's plumage over several years. By their fourth year, they are often indistinguishable from adults.

Habitat

Pacific gulls are coastal birds, favoring the shores for their daily activities. The nominate eastern race, L. p. pacificus, shows a preference for sheltered beaches, while the western race, L. p. georgii, is also found on more exposed shores.

Distribution

This species is native to Australia, with a distribution that spans from Carnarvon in the west to Sydney in the east. However, their numbers have dwindled in some southeastern areas due to competition with the self-introduced kelp gull since the 1940s.

Behaviour

Pacific gulls are typically observed alone or in pairs. They can be seen loafing along the shoreline, patrolling the skies above the water's edge, or occasionally soaring high to drop shellfish or sea urchins onto rocks to break them open.

Diet and Feeding

The diet of Pacific gulls is varied, including various fish species and invertebrates such as crabs, notably Ovalipes australiensis and Paragrapsus gaimardii. They also consume sand flatheads (Platycephalus bassensis) and cephalopods, often scavenging waste from cleaned fish on wharves and beaches. Additionally, they may feed on insects, eggs, and other seabirds. These gulls are also known to scavenge at abattoirs and rubbish tips, where they can be seen stealing food from other birds.

Breeding

Pacific gulls breed in pairs or loose colonies on offshore islands. They construct a nest cup from grasses and sticks in exposed locations, laying two or three mottled brown eggs.

Similar Species

The kelp gull is the most similar species within the Pacific gull's range, but it can be distinguished by its smaller size and different bill coloration.

Conservation status

The Pacific gull is currently listed as Least Concern by the IUCN, indicating that it is not at immediate risk of widespread decline.