The Western Gull is the large gull of the California coast and the darkest-backed large gull in the West. It is a year-round resident of Pacific Coast beaches and harbors. It preys on seabird eggs and chicks at California island colonies. The dark slate back contrasting with black wing tips and pink legs are the field marks.
Best time to see a Western Gull
The best time to see a Western Gull is January–August, when about 68% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 73,627 research-grade iNaturalist observations.
Not certain it is a Western Gull? What bird is this? walks through what to check first and the lookalikes that catch people out.
Recent Western Gull sightings near you
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