Great Black-backed Gull, Larus marinus


Great Black-backed Gull
This largest of the North American gulls is common along the east coast, and almost never found in the west. The red orbital ring marks the birds above and just below as in breeding plumage.


Great Black-backed Gull


Great Black-backed Gull
Slight smudging on the head and faint streaking on the nape while the rest of the white areas remain clear mark the non-breeding plumage.


Great Black-backed Gull
Third winter plumage, much like adult, but some brown feathering remains, some dark on tail, and dark ring rather than red gonys spot on bill.


Great Black-backed Gull
Checkered pattern above and pale head mark the first-winter bird, above and below.


Great Black-backed Gull