Heermann's Gull

Scientific name: Larus heermanni

With a plumage and bill color that sets it apart from other North American gulls, the Heermann’s Gull is highly social. In fact, over 90% of the population of Heermann’s Gulls breeds on a single island off Mexico. Egg collecting was once a major threat to the population, but protection efforts have resulted in a population increase from a once low level.

Heermann’s Gulls don’t typically breed until four years of age, and nesting takes place early in the year in February and March. Only a small area around each nest is defended by a nesting pair. Sometimes multiple pairs will become involved in territorial disputes.

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