Bonaparte's Gull: a two-minute wildlife lesson

At the Seaside · day 2 of 7

Five facts

1. Most gulls nest on the ground, but Bonaparte's gull builds its nest in conifer trees, usually 3-6 m up.
2. In breeding season, Bonaparte's gulls swarm after flying termites and hover to snatch insects in mid-air.
3. A Bonaparte's gull will travel up to a kilometre to chase away humans who approach its nest.
4. Clutches hold 2-4 eggs, most often three, and both parents share incubation for 22-24 days.
5. At just 28-38 cm long, Bonaparte's gull is one of the smallest gulls in the world.

The quiz

1. Where does Bonaparte's gull usually build its nest?

• On bare ground
• In conifer trees (correct)
• In sea caves
• On rooftops

It builds its nest in conifer trees, usually 3-6 m above ground.

2. What do the gulls snatch in the breeding season?

• Large fish only
• Seeds from the ground
• Small songbirds
• Insects, such as flying termites (correct)

They follow termite flights and hover to snatch insects mid-air.

3. How far will a gull travel to chase away humans near its nest?

• Up to a kilometre (correct)
• Only a few steps
• About ten metres
• It never chases humans

It will travel up to a kilometre to chase away humans.

4. How long do the parents share incubation?

• 2-4 days
• 220-240 days
• 22-24 days (correct)
• Only one night

Both parents share incubation for 22-24 days.

5. How long is a Bonaparte's gull?

• 8-18 cm
• 28-38 cm (correct)
• 78-88 cm
• 128-138 cm

It is just 28-38 cm long.

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