Laughing Gulls (Larus atricilla)

Laughing Gulls (Larus atricilla) are a comical and noisy member of the Eastern Egg Rock bird community. There are about 600 pairs of Laughing Gulls nesting on the island, making them second in numbers to only Common Terns. Their raucous calls are heard all day long by researchers on the island.

A breeding Laughing Gull laughs out its call

Laughing Gulls obtained their name from their noisy call that sounds like a crazy person laughing loudly. Their clown-like coloring makes them an endearing part of Eastern Egg Rock.

Listen to the Laughing Gull:

Laughing Gulls are very common on Eastern Egg Rock and other islands from Maine to Florida. They are among the most commons seaside gulls.

Unlike many of the larger gull species, Laughing Gulls are usually not very aggressive towards other seabirds and get along well with other species. However, as their numbers have increased, there have been more incidents of agression, especially toward Arctic Tern chicks.

Laughing Gulls perch on the sanctuary sign at Eastern Egg Rock