ODNR Division of Wildlife - A to Z Species Guide - Little Gull

 Little Gull

No Photo
Available

Ohio's first record of this European gull was in 1923, but they didn't become regular visitors until the 1960s. Now, we get numerous reports annually. The time to watch for them is in November and December, when enormous flocks of Bonaparte's gulls stage along Lake Erie.


Listen
 

Little Gull
Larus minutus

At-a-Glance

• Incubation: 23-25 days

• Clutch Size: 3 eggs

• Young Fledge: 21-24 days after hatching

• Typical Foods: aquatic invertebrates and fish
Description
Little gulls are often seen in association with Bonaparte's gulls, and the adults stand out well with their sooty black underwings. Their legs are red.

Habitat and Habits
Little gulls can be found on the open waters of Lake Erie; the relatively few inland records have been from large reservoirs. They have a distinctive call - a tern-like kek kek or short, rough, grating yelps, but good luck hearing them in the pack.

Reproduction and Care of the Young
Nests are made of grass and leaves; usually hidden among marsh vegetation.