Species · GBIF taxon 6065818
Bonaparte's Gull
Chroicocephalus philadelphiaAlso known as Bonaparte Gull
Bonaparte's gulls are elegant, tern-like gulls known for their buoyant, erratic flight as they swoop to pluck insects from the air or water surface. Uniquely among North American gulls, they build cup-shaped nests in the branches of coniferous trees rather than on the ground. During the breeding season, adults display a striking slate-black hood, which they swap for a simple dark smudge behind the eye in winter.
MigratoryTree-NestingAgile Flyer
- diet
- Insects, small fish, marine invertebrates, and crustaceans
- family
- Laridae
- threats
- Habitat loss in boreal breeding grounds, water pollution, and climate change affecting prey availability
- life Span
- Up to 18 years
LC
Safe to observe at a normal distance.
- Scan mixed flocks: Look for their buoyant, tern-like flight style among larger gulls.
- Check the ears: In winter, look for the distinctive dark spot behind the eye.
- Listen for vocalizations: Listen for their unique, raspy, nasal calls.