The American Herring Gull is a large North American seabird measuring 22–26 inches long with a 54–60 inch wingspan. Adults feature a pale gray back, white head and body, pink legs, and a yellow bill with a red spot. Separated from European gulls in 2024, they thrive in coastal, inland, and urban areas.
Physical Traits and Development
Adult look: White head and underparts, gray back, black wingtips with white spots.
Bill and eyes: Yellow bill with a red spot on the lower jaw; pale yellow eyes.
Young birds: Covered in mottled brown feathers and take four years to get adult plumage.
Habitat and Range
Where they live: Coastlines, lakes, rivers, islands, and city rooftops.
Geographic spread: Breed across Alaska, Canada, and the northern US; winter further south to Central America.
Diet and Behavior
What they eat: Fish, insects, small mammals, marine invertebrates, and human trash.
Nesting: Lay two to three eggs in ground scrapes or on flat buildings.
Vocalizations: Make loud, plaintive calls that sound like a weeping complaint.
