American Herring Gull

The American herring gull, or Smithsonian gull (Larus smithsonianus), presents as a robust, large gull with a distinctive sloping forehead and full chest. Adult plumage is characterized by a white head, rump, tail, and underparts, with a pale gray back and upperwings. The wingtips are marked by black with white "mirrors," and the legs are typically pink, though variations may occur.

Identification Tips

Males measure between 60–66 cm in length and weigh 1,050–1,650 g, while females are slightly smaller at 53–62 cm long and 600–900 g in weight. The wingspan ranges from 120 to 155 cm. Breeding adults boast a yellow bill with a red spot on the lower mandible and pale to medium yellow eyes surrounded by a yellow or orange ring. In winter, the head and neck may show brown streaks.

Habitat

This gull is found in diverse environments, from coastal regions to inland waterways, and is known to adapt to urban settings, frequenting parking lots and refuse dumps.

Distribution

Breeding across North America, from central and southern Alaska to the Great Lakes and the northeastern United States, the American herring gull's range extends south in winter as far as Mexico, with some reaching Hawaii, Central America, and the West Indies.

Behaviour

The American herring gull is a social bird, often nesting in colonies. It exhibits a variety of feeding behaviors, including dropping shellfish from heights to break them open. It is also known for its adaptability, thriving in both natural and urban environments.

Song & Calls

This gull does not sing but communicates through an array of calls, from the quick "hahaha" in response to threats to the loud "keow" alarm call. The "long call" involves a series of loud notes with head movements, while the "choking" call is associated with courtship and territorial disputes.

Breeding

Nesting typically begins in March or April, with a ground scrape lined with vegetation. Clutches usually consist of three eggs, which are incubated for 30–32 days. Fledging occurs after 6–7 weeks, with parental care continuing for about 6 months.

Similar Species

The American herring gull can be confused with the European herring gull, but differences in size, plumage details, and wing markings can aid in distinguishing between the two.

Diet and Feeding

An opportunistic feeder, the American herring gull's diet includes a wide range of marine invertebrates, fish, insects, and even other birds. It is known to scavenge as well, taking advantage of carrion and human refuse.

Conservation status

Listed as Least Concern by the IUCN, the American herring gull has experienced fluctuations in population due to historical hunting and environmental contaminants like DDT, but has since seen a leveling off and potential decline in some regions.