Lake Michigan seagulls, more accurately referred to as Great Lakes gulls, do migrate to some extent. The two most common species found in Lake Michigan are the Ring-billed Gull and the Herring Gull.
Migration Patterns of Lake Michigan Seagulls
Ring-billed Gulls
- These gulls are known to migrate short to medium distances.
- They typically move south in search of open water during harsh winters, especially when the Great Lakes freeze over.
- They can be found in large flocks during their migrations, often near open water sources such as rivers and lakes.
Herring Gulls
- Herring Gulls also migrate, but their patterns vary depending on their breeding locations.
- Those breeding inland in Canada and Alaska tend to move to milder winter areas, while those already along the coasts of Alaska and Canada may not migrate as far.
Inland Migration of Lake Michigan Seagulls
During extremely cold winters, gulls may wander inland in search of open water and food sources. They can be found scavenging in landfills, dumpsters, and parking lots, and roosting on ice near open water at night to avoid predators. This inland migration is primarily driven by the need to find food and shelter during harsh winter conditions.
Identifying Lake Michigan Seagull Species
Ring-billed Gulls
- Adults are about 18 inches long with a four-foot wingspan.
- They have a yellow bill with a black ring near the tip.
Herring Gulls
- Larger than Ring-billed Gulls, they are about 25 inches long with a five-foot wingspan.
- They have a yellow bill with a red spot near the tip.
Habitat and Behavior of Lake Michigan Seagulls
Great Lakes gulls can be found in a variety of habitats, including beaches, shorelines, wetlands, and even urban areas like parking lots and landfills. They are opportunistic scavengers, eating a wide range of food sources from fish and carrion to insects and organic waste.
Conservation and Population of Lake Michigan Seagulls
Historically, Ring-billed Gulls were nearly decimated due to hunting for their feathers and eggs. However, their population has rebounded significantly since the early 1900s, with an estimated 586,000 nests in the Great Lakes region. Their increasing population is attributed to changes in human activities, such as the introduction of new food sources like invasive fish and agricultural waste.
Birding and Tourism Opportunities for Lake Michigan Seagulls
The Great Lakes region offers several birding trails and opportunities for citizens to contribute to bird conservation efforts. Trails like the Saginaw Bay Birding Trail, Sunrise Coast Birding Trail, and others provide a platform for enthusiasts to observe and document gull species, contributing to the understanding of their behavior and habitat.
References:
– https://mix957gr.com/michigan-seagulls-vs-great-lake-gulls/
– https://www.farmanddairy.com/columns/why-do-we-see-gulls-during-winter/462214.html
– https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/wait_thats_not_a_seagull_msg16_schroeder16_nelson16
– https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Herring_Gull/maps-range
– https://eu.lansingstatejournal.com/story/news/2019/07/18/seagull-bird-environment-great-lakes/1664387001/