The California Gull is a common medium-sized gull, recognized by its relatively dark gray mantle and legs. It is known for its opportunistic feeding habits and adaptability to various environments. This species plays an important ecological role in its native habitats.
Where to spot
Breeds across western North America, especially inland near large lakes and reservoirs. Winters mainly along the Pacific coast from British Columbia to Mexico, but also found inland in parts of the southwest.
How to spot
Identify by its dark gray mantle, yellow legs, and a red spot (and often a black ring) on the bill. Look for them in diverse habitats, from coastal beaches and harbors to agricultural fields and city parks. Observe their characteristic soaring and scavenging behaviors.
When to spot
Year-round in parts of its range, but best observed during spring and summer (April-July) at inland breeding colonies. During fall migration and winter (August-March), they are widespread along coastlines and near urban areas.
Where to spot
Breeds across western North America, especially inland near large lakes and reservoirs. Winters mainly along the Pacific coast from British Columbia to Mexico, but also found inland in parts of the southwest.
How to spot
Identify by its dark gray mantle, yellow legs, and a red spot (and often a black ring) on the bill. Look for them in diverse habitats, from coastal beaches and harbors to agricultural fields and city parks. Observe their characteristic soaring and scavenging behaviors.
When to spot
Year-round in parts of its range, but best observed during spring and summer (April-July) at inland breeding colonies. During fall migration and winter (August-March), they are widespread along coastlines and near urban areas.
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
The California Gull is the state bird of Utah, commemorating its role in saving Mormon settlers' crops from a plague of crickets in 1848, a historic event known as the 'Miracle of the Gulls'.
We use cookies to improve your experience on our website. Essential cookies are necessary for basic functionality, while analytical cookies help us understand how visitors use our website so we can improve it.
Cookie Preferences
Customize your privacy settings
Choose which cookies you want to allow. Necessary cookies are always enabled for the basic functionality of the website. You can always change your preferences later via the cookie settings in the footer.
Necessary Cookies
These cookies are essential for the website to function properly and cannot be disabled.
Analytics Cookies
Help us understand how visitors use our website, so we can improve it.