Herring Gull -- South Dakota Birds

Herring Gull

Larus argentatus

One of the most familiar and widespread gulls in North America.  Herring Gull numbers were greatly reduced in the 19th century, but are now numerous, and expanding in range and numbers. They are often found foraging around garbage dumps, fishing operations, and other human activities.

Habitat: Wide variety of aquatic habitats, but most often found around coastlines, large lakes, and large river systems.  

Diet: Omnivorous, including fish, crustaceans, mollusks, birds, eggs, insects, worms, small rodents, berries, carrion, and refuse. 

Breeding: Non-breeder in South Dakota.

Song: Wide variety of vocalizations.

Migrations: Varying numbers in the state during winter, otherwise a migrant through the state.  Summers in Canada, the Great Lakes region, and the Northeast.  Winters along the coasts and in scattered locations throughout the U.S. and Mexico.

Similar Species: Ring-Billed Gull, California Gull.  See Identification Tips. 

Status: Greatly expanded range and numbers in the 20th century.

Further Information: 1) USGS Patuxent Bird Identification InfoCenter, Herring Gull

2) Cornell University's "All About Birds - Herring Gull"

3) E-nature.com: Herring Gull

Photo Information: December 15th, 2002 -- Above Gavin's Point Dam near Yankton -- Terry L. Sohl

Additional Photos: Click on the image chips or text links below for additional, higher-resolution Herring Gull photos.

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Please mail any comments/suggestions/additional links for this page to: Terry L. Sohl

This page was last edited on 02/03/08