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Presidio of San FranciscoPeople recreating on Baker Beach
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Presidio of San Francisco
Mew Gull
(Larus canus)
 
Mew Gull
Will Elder, NPS
Mew Gulls take a break at Crissy marsh.
 

Natural History: The Mew Gull finds its food by diving or foraging on water. It rests on mudflats, beaches, and calm water. It is also found on turbulent, coastal waters. This species breeds in Alaska and Canada.

General Distribution: In the Presidio, this species can be found in the ocean, bays, ponds, tidal sand and rock areas, and around piers and pilings.

Frequency: This species is considered common in the spring and fall and abundant during the winter.

Identifying Characteristics: This gull can be distinguished by its medium-gray mantle and back. It has a short rather slender, unmarked, greenish-yellow colored bill and a darker back than related species.

Presidio Birds main page

Crissy Field today  

Did You Know?
Crissy Field was the only Army airfield in the western United States continuously active from 1919 to 1936.

Last Updated: November 16, 2007 at 17:22 EST