KELP GULL

(Larus dominicanus)

Previously known as Southern Black-backed Gull (Roberts 5)

Two sub-species found in Southern Africa (L.d.judithae - above and L.d.vitula - see below). Photo above is of L.d.vitula
A large bird, (56 to 60 cm), found throughout the southern hemisphere. In southern Africa the endemic sub species (L. d. vitula) is common throughout the range, while the second sub-species (L. d. judithae) is a rare vagrant.   It inhabits estuaries, coastal beaches and offshore waters. It lives mainly on fish, offal and sand-mussels.
L. d vitula possible separate species - Cape Gull (see * below)

List of Stamps showing Kelp Gull
Country	SG	Michel	Year	Value
British Antarctic Territories	0299	0285	1998	£1
Falkland Islands	0194	0124	1960	1d
Falkland Islands	0674	0578	1993	72p
Falkland Islands	0860		1999	9p
French Southern & Antarctic Territories	0210	0210	1986	4f 60
Korea (North)	3058	3204	1991	50ch
Namibia*	1020		2006	N$3.10
New Zealand	1958		1996	40c
South Africa			2009	Int Letter (R5.40)
South Georgia & South Sandwich Islands	0161	0150	1987	1p
South West Africa	0396		1982	25c