Ring-billed Gull
Image: <a href="//commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:Ianare" title="User:Ianare">Ianaré Sévi</a> (CC BY-SA 3.0)
NameRing-billed Gull
Common NameRing-billed Gull
Scientific NameLarus delawarensis
FamilyLaridae
Wingspan (cm)112.5
Length (cm)44.5
Weight (g)500
Plumage DetailsAdults have a white head, body, and tail, with a pale gray back and upperwings. Their wingtips are black with white spots, and they possess a distinctive yellow bill with a prominent black ring. Legs are yellow. Juveniles, like the one pictured, exhibit mottled brown and white plumage, especially on the head and back, with a pinkish bill and legs, gradually transitioning to adult coloration over 2-3 years.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a variety of high-pitched, shrill 'kyow' or 'kree-kree-kree' calls, often given in rapid succession, as well as longer, more drawn-out wails and alarm calls.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatscoastal areas, beaches, lakes, rivers, agricultural fields, urban areas, landfills
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds across Canada and the northern United States, migrating south to the southern United States, Mexico, and the Caribbean for the winter months.
Identifying Featuresyellow bill with a distinct black ring (adults), yellow legs (adults), pale gray back and upperwings, black wingtips with white spots, mottled brown head and body in juveniles
Description
A common medium-sized gull, often found in large flocks near water bodies and urban environments. They are highly adaptable and opportunistic foragers, frequently seen scavenging for food in various habitats.
