Common name: Yellow-legged Gull
Scientific name: Larus michahellis
Family: Laridae

Size:
Body length: 52–68 cm
Wingspan: 120–155 cm
Weight: 700–1600 g

Identification:
A large and powerful gull with pale grey upperparts, white underparts, and bright yellow legs. Adults have a strong yellow bill marked with a red spot near the tip and pale yellow eyes with a reddish orbital ring. The wings show black tips with white spots visible in flight. Juveniles are mottled brown and gradually gain adult plumage over several years.

Habitat:
Coastal waters, harbors, beaches, rocky shores, islands, wetlands, and urban coastal environments.

Status in the UAE:
Rare visitor, mainly recorded along coastal habitats.

Status in Lebanon:
Common resident and breeder along the Mediterranean coast and nearby inland wetlands.

Diet:
Omnivorous and opportunistic — feeds on fish, marine invertebrates, carrion, refuse, birds, and human food waste.

Behavior:
Highly adaptable and intelligent. Often follows fishing boats or gathers around harbors and refuse sites. Strong flier and aggressive around food sources. Frequently seen resting on beaches, rooftops, or rocky coasts. Forms noisy colonies during breeding season.

Conservation status:
Least Concern (IUCN Red List)