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Location: Mission Bay (De Anza Cove), San Diego, CA
Date: 2008-01-12
Lens: Canon 600mm IS F4
Date: 2008-01-12
Lens: Canon 600mm IS F4
Western Gull
Larus occidentalis
DescriptionThese birds can be found anywhere there's food. Notice the red spot on its beak. This and its dark back are the birds distinguishing features. These Gulls are the only ones that nest in Southern California. The Channel Islands are their most popular breeding area.
White with dark gray wing and tail feathers. It has a red spot toward the end of its lower mandible. It has a yellow eye and bill. Pinkish legs/feet. 24 to 30 inches in length.
Coastal cliffs and beaches.
Nesting3 light buff, blotchy eggs with a 25-29 day incubation period. Fledging occurs 42-49 days after hatching. The nest is a ground depression lined with grass or seaweed and protected by broken, rocky terrain. Nests in colonies on offshore islands.
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