The Glaucous-winged Gull is a large gull normally found along the Pacific coast, breeding from the Washington coast northward through the southern and western coasts of Alaska, and found along the entire North American coastline in winter and migration. The species is only rarely found inland, and was unknown in South Dakota until an individual was spotted along the Missouri River in the winter of 2008-2009.
Habitat
Primarily found near coastlines. Found less often in open water far from shore, and is only an very rare visitor to inland lakes and rivers.
Diet
Omnivorous, feeding on a wide variety of food items including fish, crustaceans, squid, sea urchins, eggs, small birds and mammals, and occasionally plant material. Will also sometimes scavenge for trash and garbage and dumps and other sites.
Behavior
Uses a variety of foraging techniques, depending upon food item being pursued.
Nesting
Non-breeder in South Dakota
Song
Long, empty-sounding call. Locally variable.
Migration
Breeds along coastlines throughout most of Alaska except the northern shores, as well as the western Canada coastline and southward to Washington state. Winters in much of the same area, but also extends southward along the entire coastline of North America.
Interactive eBird map
Click here to access an interactive eBird map of Glaucous-winged Gull sightings
Similar Species
Similar to other large gulls, including Herring , Glaucous , and Thayer's gulls. Click here for a page on tips for differentiating between these and other gulls.
Conservation Status
Has adapted well to a human presence, with populations seemingly expanding in range and number in recent decades.
Further Information
- eBird - Glaucous-winged Gull
- Audubon Field Guide - Glaucous-winged Gull
- Cornell Lab of Ornithology - All About Birds: Glaucous-winged Gull
Photo Information
June 24th, 2007 - Off the coast of Seward, Alaska -- Terry Sohl
