Mediterranean Gull vs Pacific Gull

Larus melanocephalus compared with Larus pacificus

Side-by-Side Comparison

Attribute Mediterranean Gull Pacific Gull
Scientific Name Larus melanocephalus Larus pacificus
Order Charadriiformes Charadriiformes
Family Laridae Laridae
Conservation Status Least Concern Least Concern
Length
Wingspan 60.5 cm (23.8 in) 88.8 cm (35.0 in)
Weight 282.5 g (9.96 oz) 1232.5 g (43.48 oz)
Diet -- --
Clutch Size 1-5 1-3
Population Trend

Habitat Comparison

Shared Habitats

Mediterranean Gull only

Pacific Gull only

None

Conservation Status

Least Concern

Mediterranean Gull

Least Concern

Pacific Gull

About These Birds

Mediterranean Gull

Mediterranean Gull, 36–38 cm, has expanded dramatically since the 1970s, breeding across Europe from the Black Sea to Britain. Pure white body, jet-black hood in breeding plumage — the only gull with entirely white wingtips. Piscivore and invertivore; nests in colonies, often with Black-headed Gulls.

Pacific Gull

Pacific Gull, 58–66 cm, is Australia's largest gull, resident on southern and western coasts. Massive yellow and red bill capable of cracking mollusc shells by dropping them from height. White body, black mantle and wings. Omnivore; forages on rocky shores and beaches. Slow-maturing; takes 4 years for adult plumage.

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