Silver Gull
Chroicocephalus novaehollandiae
About This Species
A familiar coastal gull across Australia and New Zealand, found on beaches, harbours, and around coastal towns, often scavenging around fishing boats, picnic areas, and rubbish tips. Look for its black-and-white plumage with a red bill and legs, and listen for its harsh, wailing call, frequently given in noisy groups. It can be seen year-round and is often the boldest bird on any stretch of coastline, approaching people directly in search of food.
Ethical Viewing Guidelines
- This gull often approaches humans on its own, but it should not be fed, since handouts encourage aggressive begging and dependence on human food.
- Wildlife protection law differs between Australia and New Zealand, so check local rules, particularly around nesting colonies, which should be given a wide berth during the breeding season.
- Letting the bird set the distance, rather than encouraging closer contact, keeps interactions safe for both people and the gull.
NEAvesCharadriiformesLaridae
Seasonal Activity
1,032,584 sightings · 2000–2026
Citizen science records via GBIF
All monthsThis month
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Chordata
- Class
- Aves
- Order
- Charadriiformes
- Family
- Laridae
Photo
(c) marlenekraml, some rights reserved (CC BY-NC)
CC-BY-NC-4.0
Occurrence data from GBIF.