Iceland Gull

The Iceland gull (Larus glaucoides) is a medium-sized member of the gull family, noted for its slender build and relatively light weight. It exhibits a length ranging from 50 to 64 cm, a wingspan of 115 to 150 cm, and a weight between 480 to 1,100 grams. The species is characterized by its pale grey plumage in adults, with a yellowish-green bill, while immatures display a very pale grey with a darker bill.

Identification Tips

When identifying the Iceland gull, look for its smaller size and thinner bill compared to the larger glaucous gull. It is also generally smaller than the herring gull. The wing chord measures between 37.9 to 44.3 cm, the bill from 3.6 to 5.4 cm, and the tarsus from 4.9 to 6.7 cm. It takes four years for the Iceland gull to reach full maturity.

Habitat

The Iceland gull breeds in the Arctic regions of Canada and Greenland, favoring coastal areas and cliffs. During the breeding season, it can be found nesting on the ground or cliffs, with nests lined with grass, moss, or seaweed.

Distribution

This species is migratory, wintering in the North Atlantic as far south as the British Isles and the northernmost states of the eastern United States. It also winters in the interior of North America as far west as the western Great Lakes. In Europe, it is a much rarer sight than the similar glaucous gull.

Behaviour

The Iceland gull is a colonial or solitary breeder, laying two to three light brown eggs. It is an omnivorous scavenger, feeding on fish, molluscs, offal, scraps, and eggs. It forages in flight, picking up food at or just below the water's surface, and is also known to feed while walking or swimming. Its scavenging habits often lead it to garbage dumps and sewage outlets.

Song & Calls

The call of the Iceland gull is a high-pitched "laughing" cry, reminiscent of the herring gull but at a higher pitch.

Breeding

Breeding occurs in Canada and Greenland, but not in Iceland, despite the species' name. The Iceland gull lays two to three light brown eggs in a nest made of grass, moss, or seaweed.

Similar Species

The Iceland gull can be confused with the larger glaucous gull and the herring gull. However, it is distinguished by its smaller size, thinner bill, and the pale grey plumage of immatures with a darker bill.

Diet and Feeding

An omnivore, the Iceland gull's diet includes fish, molluscs, offal, scraps, and eggs. It forages both in flight and on the ground, often scavenging at garbage dumps and sewage outlets.

Conservation status

The Iceland gull is currently listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, indicating that it is not at immediate risk of widespread decline.