Pacific Gull
Larus pacificus
Also known as: Djugadya
About This Species
A large, heavily built gull endemic to southern Australian coasts, found on rocky shores, ocean beaches and offshore islands where it scavenges and hunts other seabirds' eggs and chicks. Its black back and wings, heavy bill and slow, deliberate flight distinguish it from smaller gull species sharing the same coastline. Rocky headlands and island colonies during the breeding season are the most reliable places to see it at close range.
Ethical Viewing Guidelines
- Keep a reasonable distance from nesting colonies, since gulls will readily abandon eggs or chicks if repeatedly disturbed, and adults can become aggressive toward people approaching too closely.
- Seabird breeding islands are frequently subject to seasonal access restrictions or permit requirements under state wildlife regulations.
- Avoid feeding this species, as it encourages scavenging behaviour around populated beaches and boat ramps.
LCAvesCharadriiformesLaridae
Seasonal Activity
148,734 sightings · 2000–2026
Citizen science records via GBIF
All monthsThis month
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Chordata
- Class
- Aves
- Order
- Charadriiformes
- Family
- Laridae
Photo
(c) Tan Kok Hui, some rights reserved (CC BY-NC)
CC-BY-NC-4.0
Occurrence data from GBIF.