Another bird which a lot of people see is the Ring-Billed Gull (Larus delawarensis). Generally known for hanging around parking lots and garbage dumps in large numbers. These birds have a fairly large range and many nest inland along fresh water in places such as the Great Lakes and St Lawrence River. (Cornell Lab)
This species migrates — but not in masses. Thus what seems to be a stable population in a given place during the winter might actually be the same number of gulls, but they are different individuals as some gulls shift south while other gulls come there from further north. And the process repeats in the opposite direction in the spring. (Details on a study in MA here)
The Daily Bucket is a regular feature of the Backyard Science group. It is a place to note any observations you have made of the world around you. Insects, weather, meteorites, climate, birds and/or flowers. All are worthy additions to the bucket. Please let us know what is going on around you in a comment. Include, as close as is comfortable for you, where you are located. Each note is a record that we can refer to in the future as we try to understand the patterns that are quietly unwinding around us.
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So a few more pictures of these graceful and sometimes raucous birds.
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"Spotlight on Green News & Views" will be posted every Saturday at noon Pacific Time and every Wednesday at 3:30 Pacific Time on the Daily Kos front page. Be sure to recommend and comment in the diary.
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Now It's Your Turn
What have you noted happening in your area or travels? As usual post your observations as well as their general location in the comments.