Short-billed Gull
NameShort-billed Gull
Common NameShort-billed Gull
Scientific NameLarus brachyrhynchus
FamilyLaridae
Wingspan (cm)110
Length (cm)43
Weight (g)425
Plumage DetailsAdults have a white head, neck, underparts, and tail, with a pale grey back and upperwings. The primary wingtips are black with prominent white spots. The bill is yellow, often with a dark subterminal band, and legs are yellowish-green. Juveniles are mottled brown and grey with a dark bill and legs.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a high-pitched, somewhat plaintive 'kyaaa' or 'klee-a', and a series of rapid, sharp 'kek-kek-kek' notes, often given in alarm or territorial displays.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatscoastal, urban, wetland, grassland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds across Alaska and northwestern Canada, migrating to winter along the Pacific coast of North America, from southern Alaska down to California.
Identifying Featuresshort yellow bill, pale grey back, white head and body, yellowish-green legs, black wingtips with white spots
Description
A medium-sized gull characterized by its relatively small, short bill. Adults display a clean white head and body with a pale grey back, while juveniles are mottled brown. They are opportunistic feeders found in various coastal and inland habitats.
