Guide to North American Birds

 Find a Bird

Common along the coastlines of eastern Asia, this gull has wandered to western Alaska a few times. Isolated birds have been found at a wide variety of other sites from coast to coast in North America. Although these far-flung strays may have been assisted in their arrival, perhaps resting on ships for part of their journey, they also might have wandered there on their own.
Family Gulls and Terns
Common along the coastlines of eastern Asia, this gull has wandered to western Alaska a few times. Isolated birds have been found at a wide variety of other sites from coast to coast in North America. Although these far-flung strays may have been assisted in their arrival, perhaps resting on ships for part of their journey, they also might have wandered there on their own.

Photo Gallery




Illustration © David Allen Sibley.
Learn more about these drawings.

Text © Kenn Kaufman, adapted from
Lives of North American Birds

Download Our Bird Guide App

Songs and Calls

Seldom vocalizes as a vagrant. Gives a "kaoo-kaoo" call.
Audio © Lang Elliott, Bob McGuire, Kevin Colver, Martyn Stewart and others.
Learn more about this sound collection.

These birds need your help

Stay abreast of Audubon

Our email newsletter shares the latest programs and initiatives.