A pale gull similar to glaucous gull but smaller.

Also called: Kumlien's Gull

Native status: Native to North America

§ Quick facts

SizeBody 30–75 cm (12–30 in); wingspan 80–170 cm
Weight200–1,800 g
LifespanWild 10–30 years
OrderCharadriiformes
FamilyLaridae

§ Encyclopedia

The Iceland gull is a medium-sized gull that breeds in the Arctic regions of Canada and Greenland, but not in Iceland, where it is only seen during winter. The genus name is from Latin larus, which appears to have referred to a gull or other large seabird. The specific name glaucoides denotes its resemblance to Larus glaucus, a synonym of Larus hyperboreus, the glaucous gull; -oides is Ancient Greek and means "resembling".

Source: Wikipedia — Iceland gull Licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

§ Identification

Field marks. Medium-large pale gull with a rounded head, small bill, and dark eye; wingtips white to pale gray (variable). Pink legs. Overall a soft, frosty appearance.

Similar species. Glaucous Gull is larger with a heavier bill and fiercer look; Thayer's-type birds show more pigment in the wingtips. Structure and small bill help.

Voice. A high laughing call, higher-pitched than Glaucous or Herring gulls.

§ Diet & behavior

Diet. Omnivorous: fish, invertebrates, scavenged food, eggs.

Behavior. A pale Arctic gull (including the 'Kumlien's' subspecies) that winters along northern coasts and the Great Lakes; gentler-looking than the similar Glaucous Gull.

§ Range

Arctic; winters in Atlantic coasts

§ Habitat

Coastal Arctic

§ Threats

Climate change, pollution.

§ Conservation status

According to the IUCN Red List, the iceland gull is currently classified as Least Concern.

§ What helps

Support Arctic conservation.

Support our work More ways to help

§ Further reading

§ Sources cited

  • Cornell Lab of Ornithology — All About Birds
  • National Audubon Society
  • iNaturalist
  • IUCN Red List