Gulls are 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
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
Behavior: Uses a very wide variety of foraging
habits, depending upon food item being pursued and experiences of individual
birds. Individual birds and birds in specific locations often adopt
specialized foraging techniques. Will capture food by walking,
swimming, dipping to grab food items from the water's surface, or stealing
food from other birds.
Breeding: Non-breeder in South Dakota
Song: Wide variety of vocalizations.
Migration: 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.
Conservation Status: Greatly expanded range and numbers in the 20th
Cornell University's "All About Birds - Herring Gull"
eNature.com: Herring Gull
Photo Information: April 21st, 2012 - Sachuest
National Wildlife Refuge, Rhode Island - Terry Sohl
Additional Photos: Click on the image chips or
text links below for additional, higher-resolution Herring Gull photos.