Leucophaeus atricilla
The Laughing Gull (*Leucophaeus atricilla*) is an iconic, medium-sized coastal gull distinguished by its striking black head during the breeding season, contrasting with a dark gray back and upperwings, white underparts, and a bright red bill. Adults measure approximately 36-41 cm (14-16 in) in length with a wingspan of 98-110 cm (39-43 in) and typically weigh between 200-400 g (7-14 oz). Juveniles exhibit a mottled brown plumage, gradually acquiring adult characteristics over two to three ye...
Predominantly found in coastal and estuarine environments, the Laughing Gull favors sandy beaches, salt marshes, barrier islands, mudflats, and open ocean near shore. It typically occurs at sea level, rarely venturing far inland or to significant elevations.
An opportunistic omnivore, the Laughing Gull's diet includes a wide array of invertebrates like crabs, shrimp, and insects, as well as fish, eggs and chicks of other birds, carrion, and human refuse. They primarily forage by picking prey from the surface, aerial hawking, or scavenging on the ground.
Laughing Gulls are highly diurnal, spending their days actively foraging, loafing, and interacting within large, boisterous flocks. Their foraging strategies are remarkably diverse: they adeptly pick prey from the water's surface, plunge-dive for fish, scavenge along shorelines, follow fishing bo...
The Laughing Gull boasts an expansive distribution primarily along the Atlantic and Gulf Coasts of North America, extending south through the Caribbean and into northern South America. Its breeding range stretches from southern Maine south to Florida, westward along the Gulf Coast to Texas, and i...
Least Concern
- The Laughing Gull gets its name from its distinctive, raucous call that sounds remarkably like human laughter. - They are notorious kleptoparasites, frequently observed stealing food directly from other birds, including pelicans, terns, and even other gulls. - During the breeding season, their ...