Habitat:
Coasts, islands, beaches

Activity period :
Primarily active during the day, with peak activity in the morning and late afternoon.

Identification and description:
The Laughing Gull, Leucophaeus atricilla, is a medium-sized bird known for its distinctive plumage and characteristic call. During the breeding season, it sports a black head, gray back, and wings with black tips. The rest of its body is white, and its bright red bill contrasts with its plumage. Outside the breeding season, its head turns white with gray spots. It primarily inhabits coasts and islands, feeding on fish, crustaceans, and waste. Sociable by nature, it often gathers in large colonies. Its adaptability to urban environments makes it a common sight along the Atlantic coasts and the Gulf of Mexico.

Recommended lens:
400mm – adjust based on distance, desired framing (portrait or habitat), and approach conditions.

Photography tips:
To photograph the Laughing Gull, focus on beaches and coasts where it is often found. Use a 400mm or longer telephoto lens to capture precise details without disturbing it. The golden hours of morning or evening provide soft light that highlights its plumage. Be patient and observe its behavior to anticipate its movements. In-flight shots can be spectacular, so be ready to quickly adjust your settings to follow its fast and agile flight.