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Seagull

A seagull is a common informal name for a gull, a seabird in the family Laridae.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

A seagull is a common informal name for a gull, a seabird in the family Laridae. The term has no fixed taxonomic meaning and is used broadly for several gull species. Gulls are common along Canada’s Atlantic, Pacific, and Arctic coasts, as well as around the Great Lakes and major urban waterfronts.

Taxonomy and naming

Seagull is an informal English name for gulls. Scientific sources note that ornithologists usually use “gull,” and that the term “seagull” has no fixed taxonomic meaning.

Description

Gulls are medium to large seabirds with webbed feet and long wings. Their plumage commonly includes white, grey, and darker markings, depending on species and age.

Habitat and behaviour

Gulls are found along coasts, inland lakes, rivers, and urban settings. They are highly adaptable and often feed by scavenging as well as hunting small marine animals.

Relationship with humans

Gulls commonly live near human settlements, where they may feed on waste or food left outdoors. This has made them familiar birds in coastal cities and ports.

Key facts

  • Seagull is a layperson's term for gulls, not a formal scientific classification.
  • Gulls belong to the family Laridae and the subfamily Larinae.
  • Gulls are adaptable birds and often feed opportunistically in human environments.
  • Commonly recognized traits include long wings, webbed feet, and variable plumage.
  • Some gull-like seabirds are colloquially called seagulls even when they are not technically gulls.
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Canadian context

Gulls are common along Canada’s Atlantic, Pacific, and Arctic coasts, as well as around the Great Lakes and major urban waterfronts.

Frequently asked questions

Is a seagull the same as a gull?
Yes, in everyday usage. “Seagull” is the informal term; “gull” is the more precise biological term.
Are seagulls only found at the sea?
No. Many gull species also live inland near lakes, rivers, landfills, and cities.
What family do seagulls belong to?
Gulls belong to the family Laridae, in the order Charadriiformes.
Why do scientists avoid the word seagull?
Because it is not a fixed taxonomic category and can refer loosely to different gull species or even other seabirds in casual speech.
What do seagulls eat?
They are opportunistic feeders and commonly eat fish, crustaceans, carrion, insects, refuse, and human food waste.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gull
    Supports: Gulls are informally called seagulls; the term has no fixed taxonomic meaning; gull taxonomy and relationships.
  2. Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/animal/gull
    Supports: Gulls are seabirds in the family Laridae; general description of the group.
  3. Merriam-Webster — https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/seagull
    Supports: Definition of seagull as a gull frequenting the sea, broadly a gull.
  4. Dictionary.com — https://www.dictionary.com/browse/seagull
    Supports: Seagull as a popular/common name for gull; common behavioural and habitat description.
  5. Audubon — https://www.audubon.org/news/seagull-or-gull-who-really-cares
    Supports: Birding usage that “seagull” is informal and “gull” is the preferred term in ornithology.