Silver Gull, a Native Common bird in New Zealand

Distribution Map

Silver Gull

Chroicocephalus novaehollandiae

NativeStatus

CommonRarity

1 / 4

Species Description

The Silver Gull, also known as Tarāpunga and/or silver gull, is a common sight along New Zealand's coasts. This small, white seabird is easily recognized by its bright red bill and legs. It's a friendly, adaptable bird often seen in coastal towns and cities.

Fun Facts

Red-billed gulls can live up to 30 years, forming long-lasting pair bonds.

1. Bright red bill, legs, and eye-ring in both breeding and non-breeding plumage

2. Smallest gull commonly seen in New Zealand

3. Pale grey wings with distinctive black wingtips

Silver Gull’s form monogamous pairs and breed in dense colonies on coastal cliffs and islands. They're excellent parents, with both males and females sharing nest-building, incubation, and chick-rearing duties. Despite their abundance, some colonies have faced declines due to changes in food availability and introduced predators.

Look for Silver Gull along any coastal area in New Zealand, especially near harbours, beaches, and rocky shores. They're also frequent visitors to urban areas, parks, and fish markets. These gulls are active throughout the day, often seen soaring over water or strutting along the sand. For the best viewing, try visiting a busy beach during lunchtime \- they're not shy about approaching people for food.