Have you ever seen a group of seagulls gracefully floating by the seaside and wondered about their lives? Today, we’re taking you on a fun and detailed journey to meet the Common Gull, one of the ocean’s little wonders that deserves a closer look.

Let's get started and discover why these birds are much more interesting than we might think!

What Do Common Gulls Look Like?

When we spot a Common Gull, we’re looking at a medium-sized seabird with a charming appearance. They usually weigh between 394 and 586 grams and stretch about 45 to 51 centimeters in length. In summer, their heads and necks are pure white, while their backs and wings shine in a sleek slate-gray. Their tail feathers stay bright white, and their wingtips sparkle with a special white patch called a "mirror."

During winter, we might notice some light brown speckles around their heads and necks, giving them a more patterned look. Their yellow eyes, greenish-yellow beak, and legs make them stand out even more. Isn’t it amazing how even their appearance changes with the seasons?

Where Do Common Gulls Call Home?

We can find Common Gulls living in a variety of places, depending on the time of year. During the breeding season, they prefer the open spaces of the Arctic tundra, forested tundras, deserts, and grasslands. They love being near rivers, lakes, ponds, and marshes. In winter, they move to warmer coastal areas, estuaries, and harbors. Some even explore large inland rivers and lakes while migrating. They’re truly flexible travelers, adapting easily to different environments throughout the year.

How Do Common Gulls Live Their Daily Lives?

We often see Common Gulls either flying in small groups or swimming elegantly on water surfaces. Along coasts, harbors, and fishing grounds rich with seafood, they gather in big flocks, floating and diving for food. Their diet mainly includes small fish, shrimps, mollusks, and insects.

Sometimes, they also grab worms and beetles from farmlands. Interestingly, Common Gulls have been observed picking up leftover food from shores or even boats. They are clever survivors, making the most of whatever food sources are available. Occasionally, they might even take eggs or chicks from other birds. It's nature’s way of keeping balance!

Where in the World Are Common Gulls Found?

These adaptable birds breed mainly in northern Europe, northern Asia, and the northwestern parts of North America. While some groups stay year-round near places like Iceland and parts of Canada, most of them migrate south when winter comes.

Their journey takes them along the Pacific coast of North America down to Baja California, across Asia’s Pacific coastline to northern Vietnam, along France and Portugal’s Atlantic shores, the southern and eastern Mediterranean coasts, the entire Black Sea shoreline, and even around the Persian Gulf and Caspian Sea. Their widespread migration shows just how resilient and adventurous they are!

How Do Common Gulls Reproduce?

During breeding season, we find Common Gulls nesting near both freshwater and saltwater lakes, marshes, riverbanks, small islands, and even on grassy slopes. Their nests are simple but safe, often built on the ground or among reeds. They tend to lay their eggs close to food-rich areas to make raising their chicks easier. We often admire how committed and cooperative they are when it comes to parenting!

Are There Different Types of Common Gulls?

Yes, there are four recognized subspecies of Common Gulls. Though they share many similar traits, each group has slight differences in appearance and migration patterns based on where they live. Isn’t it fascinating how even within a single species, nature finds ways to create variety?

How Are Common Gulls Protected Today?

Luckily, Common Gulls are currently listed as "Least Concern" on the international conservation list, meaning they are not facing major threats at the moment. However, they are still included in special wildlife protection lists, reminding us to cherish and respect them. After all, protecting wildlife helps maintain the beautiful balance of our natural world.

Fun Facts About Common Gulls!

Here’s a little fun for Lykkers: Did you know Common Gulls can drink seawater? They have special glands that filter out the salt! Also, their role as “harbor cleaners” is super important — by eating leftover food and waste, they help keep coastal areas clean. And if you ever see a flock following a ship, it’s probably because they’re hoping for a tasty snack!

Let's Keep Exploring the Wonders of Nature Together!

We believe that every encounter with nature adds a little more joy to our lives. Next time we see these lovely Common Gulls soaring above the water or resting on the shore, let’s take a moment to appreciate their spirit and resilience. What bird or animal would you love us to explore next, Lykkers? Drop your ideas, and let’s keep this amazing journey going together!

Common Gull → Guardians of the Coast ● #facts @MadfullMoments ◌ EP►25

Video by Madfull Moments