GREY GULL
Larus modestus
DESCRIPTION
The Grey Gull (Larus modestus) is a medium-sized gull found primarily along the coasts of South America. It is characterized by its grey plumage and distinctive black cap during the breeding season.
FUN FACTS
- Grey Gulls are known for their unique vocalizations | They can often be seen scavenging near fishing boats | Their breeding colonies are typically located on remote islands
QUICK INFO
Lifespan10-15 years in the wild
Average Weight300-400 g
Average Length40-45 cm
Diet TypeOmnivore
Social Structuregroup — often seen foraging in flocks
Activity PatternDiurnal
Breeding SeasonSpring (September-November)
- Habitat
- Grey Gulls inhabit coastal areas, particularly rocky shores and estuaries. They are often found in regions with abundant marine life.
- Biomes
- Coastal, Marine
- Native Range
- The Grey Gull is native to the coastal regions of Chile and Peru.
- Continent
- South America
- Countries
- Chile, Peru
- Diet
- Grey Gulls primarily feed on fish, crustaceans, and other marine invertebrates. They are known to scavenge as well, taking advantage of food sources from human activities.
- Diet Type
- Omnivore
- Favorite Food
- fish, crustaceans
- Social Structure
- group — often seen foraging in flocks
- Activity Pattern
- Diurnal
- Group Size
- 10-50
- Territorial
- 0
VU
LC
300-400 g
Weight
40-45 cm
Length
- Coloration
- grey plumage with a black cap and white underparts
- Lifespan
- 10-15 years in the wild
- Offspring per Birth
- 1-3
- Sexual Maturity
- 3-4 years
- Breeding Season
- Spring (September-November)
LC
Least Concern
IUCN Red List Status
- Population Status
- The population is currently stable, with no major declines reported.
- Wild Population Estimate
- 50,000-100,000
- Population Trend
- Stable
- Endangered
- 0
- Threats
- Main threats include habitat loss due to coastal development and pollution. Climate change also poses a risk to their marine food sources.
- Predators
- large birds of prey, domestic cats
- Defense Mechanisms
- They may use aggressive vocalizations and mobbing behavior to deter predators.
- Found in Zoos
- Rare