The Gull Guide

North America

Amar Ayyash

• Publisher: Princeton University Press
• Year: 2024
• Print ISBN: 9780691195896
• eBook ISBN: 9780691263458
• Subtopic: Zoology

The definitive photographic guide to North American gulls

Gull identification can be challenging for even the most seasoned birder. While these birds are common to coasts, lakes, and rivers, they exhibit remarkable plumage changes related to age, which is sometimes complicated by similarities between species and a readiness to hybridize. This book provides an invaluable identification guide to all regularly occurring gull species and subspecies throughout North America. It is packed with the very latest research on field identification, updated taxonomy, current distribution trends, color maps, and helpful notes on natural history, aging, and molt. The Gull Guide integrates the essential elements that are critical to understanding gulls, setting an entirely new standard for identifying and enjoying these marvelous birds.

• Features more than 1,800 superb color photos
• Covers 36 gull species as well as 7 of the most commonly encountered hybrid gulls
• Gives equal attention to rarities from Asia, Europe, and South America
• Describes the key characteristics of all age groups, from juvenile through adult plumages
• Innovative photo collages give side-by-side comparisons, enabling readers to distinguish between similar species and avoid common pitfalls associated with gull identification
• Comes with a one-of-a-kind “cheat sheet” describing key features of select Larus species
• A must for the bookshelf of every birder and ornithologist

Table of contents

• Cover Page
• Title Page
• Copyright Page
• Contents
• Dedication
• Acknowledgments
• Introduction
• Taxonomy
• Gull Topography
• Aging and Molt
• Identification
• Species Accounts
• 1. Small Tern-like and Hooded Gulls
• 2. Larus Gulls
• Herring Gull Complex
• 3. Hybrids
• Appendix
• Glossary
• References
• Index