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Presidio of San FranciscoSalt marsh at Crissy Field
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Presidio of San Francisco
California Gull
(Laurus californicus)
 
California Gull
Will Elder, NPS
A California Gull at Crissy marsh
 

Natural History: The California Gull is omnivorous, eating everything from garbage to invertebrates. It roosts in large groups along shorelines and landfills. It nests in open areas on islands between April and August.

General Distribution: In the Presidio, this species is found in the ocean, bays, ponds, tidal sand and rocky areas, and around piers, pilings, and lawns.

Frequency: This species is considered common in the summer, fall, and winter months.

Identifying Characteristics: This gull can be distinguished by its medium-gray color, black wing tips with white spots and greenish legs. It displays a red spot on its lower bill and in winter black as well.

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: January 03, 2008 at 16:06 EST