What species of gull is the lesser black-backed gull?
Q: What species of gull is the lesser black-backed gull?
A: The lesser black-backed gull (Larus fuscus) is a large gull that breeds on the Atlantic coasts of Europe.
Q: Where does this species migrate to in winter?
A: In winter, the lesser black-backed gull migrates from the British Isles south to West Africa and is a regular winter visitor to the east coast of North America, probably from the breeding population in Iceland.
Q: Where do they build their nests?
A: The lesser black-backed gull builds its nest on the ground or a cliff, usually lined with materials.
Q: How many eggs are typically laid by this species?
A: Normally, three eggs are laid by each pair of lesser black-backed gulls.
Q: Are there any other species that it could be confused with in Europe?
A: The only species it might be confused with in Europe is the great black-backed gull. Lesser is a smaller bird, with slimmer build, yellow rather than pinkish legs, and smaller white "mirrors" at the wing tips.
Q: How can adults feed young birds?
A: Adults feed young birds by regurgitation when they peck at a red spot on their bill. This behaviour is an inherited pattern called a fixed action pattern or releaser.
