The Short-billed Gull was split from Mew Gull as a full species in 2021. It is a small, round-headed gull with a tiny bill that breeds in Alaska and western Canada and winters along the Pacific Coast. The small bill and rounded head distinguish it from larger gulls. It mixes with other gull species on beaches and in harbors.
Best time to see a Short-billed Gull
The best time to see a Short-billed Gull is October–February, when about 62% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 9,638 research-grade iNaturalist observations.
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Recent Short-billed Gull sightings near you
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