Gull

Armenian Gull Juvenile in flight, Sevan lake

Larus pacificus Bruny Island

Swallow-tailed-gull

Ahlainen.vaakuna

File:Gulls foot paddling.webm Gulls are a group of medium to large-sized birds that belong to the family Laridae, in the order Charadriiformes. They are typically associated with coastal and marine environments, although some species inhabit inland areas near lakes, rivers, and garbage dumps. Gulls are known for their versatile feeding habits, which include scavenging, predation, and kleptoparasitism (stealing food from other birds). This adaptability has allowed them to thrive in many environments around the world.

Description

Gulls have a distinctive appearance, characterized by their usually white or grey plumage, often with black markings on the head or wings. They have stout, longish bills and webbed feet. The size, shape, and color of gulls can vary widely among species, from the small Little Gull (Hydrocoloeus minutus) to the much larger Great Black-backed Gull (Larus marinus). Despite their common name, not all species are referred to as "gulls" in all cultures or languages; some are called "mews" or "seagulls," a term that is not favored by ornithologists.

Habitat and Distribution

Gulls are found almost worldwide, from the Arctic to the Antarctic, including isolated islands in the oceans. They are most commonly seen along coastlines, but many species travel far inland during migration or to breed. Gulls have adapted to various habitats, including sandy beaches, cliffs, wetlands, and urban areas.

Behavior

Gulls are social birds, often found in large colonies during the breeding season. They are known for their loud calls and aggressive behavior, especially when defending their nests or competing for food. Gulls are opportunistic feeders; their diet can include fish, insects, worms, rodents, eggs, and refuse. Some species have demonstrated remarkable intelligence in using tools and solving problems to access food.

Reproduction

The breeding season for gulls varies by species and location, but generally occurs in spring and summer. Gulls are monogamous and often return to the same nesting sites year after year. Nests are usually built on the ground or in cliffside colonies and are made from grass, seaweed, and feathers. Females typically lay two to three eggs, which both parents help to incubate. Gull chicks are precocial, meaning they are relatively mature and mobile from the moment of hatching.

Conservation

While many gull species are abundant and not considered endangered, some species face threats from habitat loss, pollution, and climate change. Conservation efforts for gulls include protecting nesting sites, reducing pollution, and enforcing fishing regulations to ensure sustainable food sources.

See Also

• Seabird
• Charadriiformes
• Bird migration