The Glaucous-winged Gull, also known as the Larus glaucescens, is a large species of gull found in North America. This bird is commonly seen around coastal areas and canals throughout its range.
Basic Description
The Glaucous-winged Gull has a wingspan that ranges from 137 to 165 centimeters (54 to 65 inches) and weighs between 1.3-2.3 kilograms (2.9-5 lbs). Adults have white heads with gray mantle feathers while juveniles have brown speckled plumage on their backs but will eventually turn grey by their second year.
Where To Find This Bird
These birds are primarily found along the west coast of North America, spanning from Alaska down to California. They can also be found inland near lakes or ponds during migration seasons.
Habitat
Glaucous-winged gulls prefer to nest on rocky cliffsides or atop buildings near water sources such as oceans, bays, estuaries or rivers. During the winter months they may venture into urban areas for food resources.
Food
Glaucous-winged gulls are opportunistic feeders and eat a variety of foods including fish, crustaceans, mollusks and sometimes small mammals like rodents or baby rabbits when available. They scavenge garbage dumps; steal food from other seabirds; even oceanic mammals like sea lions share prey with them in return for cleaning parasites off their fur/skin surfaces.
Cool Facts
One interesting fact about these birds is that they are known for exhibiting ‘site fidelity’, which means they tend to stick close to where they first nested unless environmental changes force them out further away from home ranges over time.
Another fascinating trait of these birds is their ability to use tools – specifically rocks – in order to crack open hard-shelled prey items like clams and mussels. They drop the prey from a height and release it onto rocks below to crack their hard outer shell.
In conclusion, the Glaucous-winged gull is an impressive bird that has adapted well to its coastal habitat. It is fun to watch them glide effortlessly over water or soar through the sky. Their resourcefulness when foraging for food and tools usage make watching these birds even more fascinating. If you live near a coast in North America, make sure you keep your eyes peeled for this beautiful bird species!
