The idea of a “seagull” in a landlocked state like Iowa often causes surprise, but the term itself is misleading. The birds commonly called seagulls are actually gulls, belonging to the family Laridae. This diverse group is highly adaptable and not restricted to saltwater environments, despite their reputation as coastal scavengers. Gulls utilize a wide range of aquatic habitats, making their presence in the Midwest entirely natural.
Gulls Are Indeed Present in Iowa
Gulls are common seasonal visitors and residents throughout Iowa, with bird records indicating over 21 species have been sighted. The most numerous gulls are typically seen concentrated near large bodies of water, particularly along the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers. Their flexible diets and ability to travel long distances allow them to thrive far from the ocean. Iowa’s geography provides ample resources, making it a significant stopover point as they navigate the continent.
Identifying the Most Common Species
The Ring-billed Gull (Larus delawarensis) is the most widespread and frequently observed species in Iowa, often seen in large, noisy flocks. Adults are characterized by their pale gray back, bright yellow legs, and a distinctive black ring encircling their yellow bill. This medium-sized gull is comfortable around humans and often scavenges in urban and agricultural settings.
Another common visitor is the Franklin’s Gull (Leucophaeus pipixcan), a smaller species that is primarily a migrant. During the breeding season, adults are striking, featuring a full black head, white crescents above and below the eye, and a white band across their black wingtips. Franklin’s Gulls are often spotted foraging for insects in agricultural fields, sometimes following tractors to catch disturbed prey.
The Ecology of Inland Gull Migration
The movement of gulls through Iowa is governed by the Mississippi Flyway, a major north-south migration corridor following the Mississippi, Missouri, and Ohio River systems. Gulls use these corridors to travel between northern breeding grounds and southern wintering areas, taking advantage of resources. Research shows that gulls often move in more direct southerly paths rather than strictly following river bends, demonstrating a flexible migration strategy.
Their omnivorous and opportunistic diet is the primary reason for their success in a landlocked environment. Gulls feed readily on insects, small fish, and waste, utilizing human-created environments for reliable food sources. Landfills and agricultural operations provide significant feeding opportunities for large flocks, effectively replacing coastal food sources. This adaptability allows them to efficiently complete long-distance migrations, often covering over 100 kilometers in a single day.
The large U.S. Army Corps of Engineers reservoirs act as major magnets for migrating gulls, offering safe, open water for roosting. Reservoirs like Saylorville and Red Rock become temporary habitats for thousands of birds seeking refuge and a clean water source. Gulls commute daily between these night roosts and daytime feeding sites, which often include nearby farmlands and landfills.
Where and When to Spot Gulls in Iowa
The best places to observe gulls are the large inland lakes and reservoirs that offer expansive open water. Saylorville Reservoir and Red Rock Reservoir are known hotspots, with researchers recording high species diversity and large numbers of gulls. Looking for large flocks resting on the water or flying overhead near these major water bodies will yield the most sightings.
Gull numbers and species diversity typically peak in the late fall, just before the water bodies freeze over, usually in November and early December. This late-season congregation is a staging point before the birds move south for the winter. Spring migration also offers viewing opportunities, particularly from April through May, when species like the Franklin’s Gull pass through on their way to northern breeding grounds.