Bonaparte's Gull
NameBonaparte's Gull
Common NameBonaparte's Gull
Scientific NameChroicocephalus philadelphia
FamilyLaridae
Wingspan (cm)80
Length (cm)31.5
Weight (g)205
Plumage DetailsBreeding adults have a striking black head, white body, pale gray back and upperwings, and a distinctive white triangle on the outer primaries with black tips. The bill is slender and black, and legs are reddish-orange. Non-breeding adults have a white head with a dark spot behind the eye.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a high-pitched, nasal 'cherrr' or 'churr' call, often repeated. They also produce softer 'chup' notes.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, wetland, coastal
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds across Alaska and Canada, primarily in boreal forests near freshwater. Winters along the Pacific and Atlantic coasts of North America, and on the Great Lakes.
Identifying FeaturesSmall size for a gull, Black head in breeding plumage, Slender black bill, White triangle on outer primary feathers (visible in flight), Reddish-orange legs (breeding)
Description
A small, elegant gull, easily recognized by its distinctive black head during the breeding season. It often forages gracefully over water, catching insects and small fish. This species is known for its buoyant flight and agile movements.
