Mediterranean Gull vs Slaty-backed Gull
Larus melanocephalus compared with Larus schistisagus
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Attribute | Mediterranean Gull | Slaty-backed Gull |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Larus melanocephalus | Larus schistisagus |
| Order | Charadriiformes | Charadriiformes |
| Family | Laridae | Laridae |
| Conservation Status | Least Concern | Least Concern |
| Length | — | — |
| Wingspan | 60.5 cm (23.8 in) | 87.0 cm (34.3 in) |
| Weight | 282.5 g (9.96 oz) | 1280.5 g (45.17 oz) |
| Diet | -- | -- |
| Clutch Size | 1-5 | 1-4 |
| Population Trend | — | — |
Habitat Comparison
Shared Habitats
Mediterranean Gull only
Slaty-backed Gull only
None
Conservation Status
Least Concern
Mediterranean Gull
Least Concern
Slaty-backed 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.
Slaty-backed Gull
Slaty-backed Gull, 55–68 cm, breeds on coasts and cliffs of the Russian Far East, wintering south to Japan and occasionally the US Pacific coast. Dark slate-grey mantle, pink legs, 'string of pearls' white mirrors on outer wing. Omnivore; scavenges at fishing ports in East Asian harbours.