
Herring gull ©Gillian Day

©Jon Hawkins/Surrey Hills Photography
Herring gull
Scientific name: Larus argentatus
Swooping in and stealing your chips or ice-cream, the herring gull is the typical 'seagull' of our seaside resorts. A large gull, it is similar in appearance to the Common Gull, but sports a distinctive red spot on its bill.
Species information
Category
Statistics
Length: 55-67cmWingspan: 1.4m
Weight: 950g-1.2kg
Average lifespan: 12 years
Conservation status
Classified in the UK as Red under the Birds of Conservation Concern 4: the Red List for Birds (2015). Priority Species under the UK Post-2010 Biodiversity Framework.