Species · GBIF taxon 6065844
Leucophaeus atricilla
leucophaeus atricillaLaughing gulls are gregarious coastal birds easily recognized by their stark black hoods during the breeding season and their loud, nasal, laugh-like calls. They patrol beaches, salt marshes, and estuaries, frequently hovering overhead to snatch food from the air or harass other seabirds into dropping their catch. During winter, their dark hoods fade to a mottled grey smudge behind the eye, but their bold, opportunistic personality remains unchanged.
CoastalSocialVocal
- diet
- Omnivorous, feeding on fish, marine invertebrates, insects, carrion, and human food scraps
- family
- Laridae
- threats
- Coastal development, oil spills, plastic pollution, and disturbance at nesting colonies
- life Span
- 15 to 20 years in the wild
LC
Capable of a sharp pinch if cornered or handled; observe from a respectful distance.
- Listen for the laugh: Identify them by their loud, descending, cackling calls echoing across beaches.
- Keep food secure: Secure picnic items to prevent these bold birds from stealing meals directly from hands.
- Respect nesting colonies: Avoid entering roped-off beach nesting areas to prevent parent birds from diving.