Why Are Seagulls Seabirds?
Seagulls are sea birds that inhabit almost all continents. They are very popular and known all over the world. In fact, it is very difficult to think of a seagull anywhere other than near mouths, harbors and coastal locations. But why are seagulls seabirds? In this article we will reveal everything you need to know about these fascinating birds.
Gulls: physical characteristics and taxonomy
Gulls are birds with webbed legs belonging to the laridae family . At present, more than 40 species of this variety of birds are known and mainly inhabit the coasts of Europe and the Americas. They have a compact and slender body, with long and strong wings. An adult gull usually measures between 27 and 80 centimeters from beak to tail.
The beak is strong and sturdy with shades of yellow or orange. As a curiosity, its elongated legs have a membrane that connects the webbed toes and allows them to move easily on the water.
These birds undergo various transformations in their plumage as they reach adulthood. Their feathers predominate in white and gray, and they have small black spots on their wings or head.
The thickness of the plumage does not allow them to fly on a flat surface without the help of the wind or to immerse themselves in the water. However, the wings have a perfect structure to glide and to allow the seagull to show great agility during flight. While they would be able to do so, these birds usually don’t fly long distances or reach surprising heights, such as hawks or eagles.
Why do we say seagulls are seabirds?
We are used to associating seagulls with the sea and most of the species live near the coast. As we said, their body is designed to glide and move on water. These species can live up to 95% of their life on the oceans and rest on the continent only when they have to lay their eggs.
Despite being marine animals, there are also species of seagulls that feed and nest on the continent, far from the sea. These rarer species usually reach the interior by following the courses of rivers.
All seagull species need to live in areas with good wind availability. Otherwise, they would not be able to take off, find food and would become vulnerable to possible predators. They are found on all continents, but mainly live along the American continent and on the coasts of the European seas.
In addition, the seagull is one of the birds that is best adapted to coexistence with humans. They are able to live near ports, in man-made wetlands, such as dams, lakes, reservoirs, river mouths, and even at open landfills.
What do seagulls eat?
Like most birds, gulls maintain a varied diet in their natural habitat . Their eating habits are quite opportunistic and vary based on food availability, climate or environment.
When they live near seas and rivers, they usually catch fish, insects, molluscs, crustaceans , vegetables and worms. In addition, they can also steal eggs from other birds that nest near the coast. Species that inhabit the interior can approach rivers to feed or search for prey on trees, rocks or mountains.
When food is scarce, gulls can adopt makeshift eating habits , feeding on carcasses and carrion, like vultures. An emergency solution, obviously, which exploits what other birds, especially birds of prey, leave behind.
In recent years it has been possible to appreciate the presence of seagulls even in large cities, such as Rome. Here, these sea birds gradually adapted to human habits. They feed on the remains of fishing or the markets, not disdaining even the organic waste that emerges in the normal garbage. Landfills in large cities often provide a safe source of food for these animals.
Habits of seagulls
Although they may adopt solitary habits, they typically form colonies to increase their chances of survival. They are intelligent birds that maintain their own social structure and demonstrate a sophisticated communication system. In addition, they are territorial animals and the entire community is responsible for defending their environment.
During the breeding season, males and females congregate on beaches, riverbeds or marshes. Gulls are monogamous seabirds. Once a partner is chosen , they keep it for life and share the responsibility of caring for the little ones. They build simple nests, with branches and grass, usually on the cliffs, near the sea.
