Click photo to see complete painting

Glaucous Gull

Status Uncommon in winter. During some winters it is fairly common along the coast but is seen more frequently about harbour docks and sewage outlets. This species has been seen on all of Nova Scotia's coasts but it is most common on Cape Breton Island. It generally first appears in October (average 14 October, earliest 2 October); individuals on Sable Island in mid-September 1979 (W. Stobo) and on 10 September 1984 (R. Pocklington) were exceptional. Stragglers remain into May (average 16 May, latest 31 May), especially on Sable Island.

Description Length: 66-76 cm. Adults: Light pearly grey mantle across back and wings; wings without black tips; rest of plumage pure white. Immatures: Vary from barred, pale ashy brown to brownish cream and have pink bills with dark tips.

Range Circumpolar. In North America, breeds on the coasts of northern Alaska, the Canadian Arctic islands and Greenland. In eastern North America, winters from southwestern Greenland south to New York State.

Remarks Approximating the Great Black-backed Gull in size, this bird is powerful and predatory, robbing other seabirds of their food and at times raiding their nests. It is distinguished from the Iceland Gull by its larger size, heavier bill and relatively short wings at rest.