Seagull On The Chicago Seawall

An image of a seagull (Larus delawarensis) sitting on the seawall in Chicago. The technical name for this gull is Ring-billed gull. The are found in... more

by Flees Photos

Title

Seagull On The Chicago Seawall

Artist

Flees Photos

Medium

Photograph - Home Decor And Giclee Wall Art By Chris Flees

Description

An image of a seagull (Larus delawarensis) sitting on the seawall in Chicago. The technical name for this gull is Ring-billed gull. The are found in many parts of the US but this one happened to be in Chicago, this specific bird is a gull living on or around the great lakes more specifically Lake Michigan. They seem rather fearless especially in large groups.

Seagulls, also known as gulls, are medium to large-sized seabirds belonging to the family Laridae. They are known for their adaptability, intelligence, and scavenging behavior. Here are some interesting facts about seagulls:

Global distribution: Seagulls are found worldwide, living in coastal regions, on islands, and sometimes even inland near large bodies of water. They are highly adaptable and can thrive in both urban and natural environments.

Diverse species: There are over 50 species of gulls, with varying sizes and plumage patterns. Some common gull species include the Herring Gull, Ring-billed Gull, California Gull, Black-headed Gull, and Lesser Black-backed Gull.

Plumage: Seagulls typically have white plumage, often with gray or black markings on their wings and backs. The extent of these markings and the size of the birds can vary depending on the species.

Omnivorous diet: Seagulls are opportunistic feeders and have a varied diet. They scavenge for food, eating fish, crustaceans, insects, small mammals, eggs, and even garbage and food scraps left by humans.

Vocalizations: Seagulls are known for their distinctive calls, which can vary between species. Their vocalizations include squawks, screams, and mewing sounds, often heard around coastal areas.

Flying abilities: Seagulls are excellent fliers with long, slender wings that allow them to glide effortlessly on air currents. They are skilled at soaring and hovering while searching for food.

Nesting behavior: Seagulls typically nest on the ground in large colonies. They build nests using vegetation, grass, and feathers, and some species line the nests with softer materials.

Parental care: Both male and female seagulls take part in raising their chicks. They share incubation duties and protect their offspring from predators and intruders.

Longevity: Seagulls can live for many years in the wild, with some species living up to 20 years or more.

Adaptability: Seagulls have adapted well to living in close proximity to humans. They are often seen scavenging for food around harbors, beaches, parks, and landfill sites.

Predators: Seagulls have several natural predators, including larger birds of prey, such as eagles and hawks, and mammals like foxes and raccoons. However, their ability to fly and nest in large colonies provides some protection against certain predators.

Social behavior: Seagulls are social birds and often congregate in large groups, especially during the non-breeding season. They engage in behaviors like bathing, preening, and mutual grooming, which helps maintain social bonds within the group.

While seagulls are an integral part of coastal ecosystems and are fascinating birds to observe, their scavenging habits and opportunistic nature can sometimes lead to conflicts with humans, especially in urban areas. It's essential to avoid feeding them human food, as it can lead to dependency, aggressive behavior, and potential health issues for the birds. Enjoying seagulls in their natural habitats and respecting their wild nature is the best way to appreciate these intelligent and resourceful birds.

This image is © Chris Flees all rights reserved

Uploaded

May 27th, 2014