Larus hyperboreus
The Glaucous Gull (*Larus hyperboreus*) is a majestic and robust "white-winged" gull, an iconic denizen of the Arctic and sub-Arctic regions. A large species, adults typically measure 60-70 cm (23.5-27.5 in) in length with an impressive wingspan of 135-165 cm (53-65 in) and weigh 1-2 kg (2.2-4.4 lbs). Adults are striking with their entirely white head and body, pale gray mantle and upperwings, and notably lack any black on their primary feathers, a key field mark distinguishing them from most...
Found primarily in coastal Arctic and sub-Arctic regions, inhabiting tundra, rocky shores, open ocean, and estuaries; in winter, frequently uses harbors and landfills.
An opportunistic omnivore and scavenger, feeding on fish, carrion, eggs, chicks of other birds, small mammals, marine invertebrates, berries, and refuse from human settlements.
Glaucous Gulls are largely diurnal, actively foraging throughout the day and roosting communally at night, often on ice floes, coastal cliffs, or open water. Their foraging strategy is highly opportunistic and adaptable, ranging from skilled aerial piracy (kleptoparasitism) of other seabirds to s...
The Glaucous Gull boasts a circumpolar breeding range across the Arctic and sub-Arctic regions of the Northern Hemisphere. In North America, it breeds extensively in Alaska, Arctic Canada, and Greenland. Across Eurasia, breeding occurs in Iceland, Scandinavia, the Russian Arctic, and Siberia. Dur...
Least Concern
- The Glaucous Gull is one of the largest gull species in the world, sometimes rivaling the Great Black-backed Gull in size, making it a true aerial heavyweight of the Arctic. - Its defining characteristic is the complete absence of black on its wingtips, giving it the "white-winged" moniker, a k...