h2 Basic Description
The Ring-billed Gull (Larus delawarensis) is a medium-sized gull species found throughout North America. Adults are typically 16 to 21 inches in length with a wingspan of up to 4 feet. They have white plumage, gray wings and back, and yellow legs. The most distinctive feature of this bird is the black ring around its bill.
h2 Where To Find This Bird
Ring-billed Gulls can be found all across North America, from the Atlantic coast to the Pacific coast and as far north as Alaska. During breeding season, they can also be found inland near lakes and rivers.
h2 Habitat
This gull species prefers habitats that include open water such as lakes, rivers, coastal beaches, and estuaries. They are also known to inhabit urban areas such as parking lots or rooftops near bodies of water where they scavenge for food.
h2 Food
Ring-billed Gulls are opportunistic feeders that will eat almost anything they can find including fish, insects, crustaceans, mollusks, rodents or garbage left by humans at landfills or other feeding sites.
h2 Cool Facts
– Ring-billed Gulls mate for life.
– These birds use their “kiting” ability to fly into the wind without flapping their wings while searching for prey below.
– Inland populations of Ring-billed Gulls migrate south during winter while coastal populations stay put year-round.
– Juvenile Ring-billed Gulls don’t develop their namesake black ring around their bills until after their first winter.
– Ring-bills are often seen stealing food from other seabirds like pelicans or terns in midair before landing on solid ground again.
In conclusion,
the Ring-Billed Gull is not just any ordinary bird but an amazing one with unique characteristics that make it stand out among others. From its distinctive black ring on the bill to its opportunistic feeding habits, this bird species has found a way to live in various habitats across North America. So next time you’re near a body of water, keep an eye out for these fascinating creatures as they soar through the sky or scavenge on land below.
