Pallas's Gull (Ichthyaetus ichthyaetus)

The Pallas’s Gull (Ichthyaetus ichthyaetus), along with the Great Black-backed Gull (Larus marinus), is one of the largest gulls that can be observed in Romania. It stands out with its distinctive black head during the breeding season and the bright red spot on its beak. This species is characteristic of wetland areas, nesting in colonies on low islands or in reed beds. In Romania, its presence is concentrated in the Danube Delta, where the breeding population has increased in recent decades.

Description:

• Name in English: Pallas’s Gull or Greater Black-headed Gull
• Scientific Name: Ichthyaetus ichthyaetus
• Size: Length: 55–67 cm | Wingspan: 140–170 cm
• Weight: 1.2–2.2 kg
• Lifespan: 10–20 years
• Presence in Romania: Year-round, breeds in the Danube Delta
• Frequency: Relatively common
• Conservation Status: Least Concern (LC – IUCN)

Characteristics:

The Pallas’s Gull is a large gull, recognizable by its black head during the breeding season, a long, strong, slightly curved bright yellow and red beak and yellow legs. Outside the breeding season, its head loses the intense coloration, leaving only dark markings around the eyes. Juveniles are predominantly brown, with white and black patches on their wings, gradually becoming lighter as they mature.

Habitat and Distribution:

This species prefers wetlands, salt lakes, lagoons and slow-flowing rivers. It nests in colonies on low islands or in reed beds, protected from predators. Its range extends from southeastern Europe and western Asia to Mongolia and China. During the cold season, it migrates to southern regions, reaching India, the Middle East and northeastern Africa.

Presence in Romania:

Pallas’s Gull is mainly found in the Danube Delta, where it has been recorded as a breeding species in recent decades. The breeding population is increasing, making Romania an important location on its European distribution map.

The first known breeding site in Romania was Musura Island, with subsequent confirmed breeding in three other locations within the coastal region of the Danube Delta.

Outside the breeding season, it can occasionally be seen along the coastline and in inland lakes of Dobrogea, but sightings have also been recorded in other parts of the country.

Behavior:

This is an opportunistic species, feeding on fish, invertebrates, eggs of other birds and even organic waste. During the breeding season, it forms mixed colonies with other gull species. Its chicks are nidifugous, meaning they leave the nest shortly after hatching and are fed by their parents for several weeks.

Conservation Status and Threats:

Although it is not considered a threatened species, habitat destruction, pollution and human disturbances can negatively impact local populations. Protecting wetland areas and maintaining the natural conditions of the Danube Delta are essential for the conservation of this species.

Where Can It Be Seen?

Pallas’s Gull is most frequently observed in the Danube Delta, particularly in the northern lake areas and the Razim-Sinoe lagoon complex. Outside the breeding season, it can sporadically appear along the Romanian coast, in southern Dobrogea, and in inland lakes near the Danube.

Interesting Facts:

• Pallas’s Gull is an excellent flier and can travel long distances during migration.
• Its name comes from Greek, where ikhthus means “fish” and aetos means “eagle.”
• Unlike other gulls, it has a deeper and more powerful call.
• It is one of the few gull species that occasionally ventures farther from water.
• During the breeding season, it aggressively defends its territory, chasing away intruders with spectacular aerial attacks.
• Its chicks have cryptic camouflage coloring, helping them blend in and avoid predators.

This is Pallas’s Gull, an elegant and fascinating presence in the Danube Delta. If you ever get the chance to observe one, take a moment to admire its majestic flight and impressive hunting behavior! 😊