The world’s smallest gull is common in Eurasia. Very rare in North America although a small number breed in eastern Canada and overwinter on the eastern coast. A fantastic lone record exists for our checklist area. Feeds on insects, fish and aquatic invertebrates. Will catch insects out of mid air. Takes two years to attain adult plumage.
Similar species:
Bonaparte’s Gull, which is uncommon but annual in our checklist area must be considered as the two species are quite similar. Attention to wing pattern is a key fieldmark. Size is difficult to judge unless the birds are side by side. See photos below, generously provided by Brian Stone.
Sources:
Ehrlich, Dobkin and Wheye, (1988)
Sibley, D. (2000)
Brian Stone’s Nature Diary
Noteworthy Data
Date | Location | Source(s) | Comments |
| September 15, 2012 | Harrison Lake near Long Island | R. Toochin 2012a | A first winter bird (L. Evans 2012) discovered from a boat in Harrison Lake. Photographed. |
Photos
