The Black-billed Gull is a medium-sized gull endemic to New Zealand, characterized by its slender black bill and pale plumage. It is considered the most endangered gull species in the world.
Where to spot
Endemic to New Zealand, primarily found on the South Island, often associated with braided rivers, coastal lagoons, and estuaries.
How to spot
Look for its pale grey plumage, distinctive slender black bill, and elegant flight. Distinguish it from the Silver Gull by its black bill and slightly larger size.
When to spot
Best observed during the breeding season (late winter to early summer) when concentrated in colonies on riverbeds. Can be seen year-round in coastal areas.
Where to spot
Endemic to New Zealand, primarily found on the South Island, often associated with braided rivers, coastal lagoons, and estuaries.
How to spot
Look for its pale grey plumage, distinctive slender black bill, and elegant flight. Distinguish it from the Silver Gull by its black bill and slightly larger size.
When to spot
Best observed during the breeding season (late winter to early summer) when concentrated in colonies on riverbeds. Can be seen year-round in coastal areas.
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
This gull has a unique nesting preference, often breeding on braided riverbeds, which makes its colonies vulnerable to flooding and introduced predators.
We use cookies to improve your experience on our website. Essential cookies are necessary for basic functionality, while analytical cookies help us understand how visitors use our website so we can improve it.
Cookie Preferences
Customize your privacy settings
Choose which cookies you want to allow. Necessary cookies are always enabled for the basic functionality of the website. You can always change your preferences later via the cookie settings in the footer.
Necessary Cookies
These cookies are essential for the website to function properly and cannot be disabled.
Analytics Cookies
Help us understand how visitors use our website, so we can improve it.