Summer PSA: Slow for Seagulls!

Image above: A Heermann's Gull pair watches over their downy chicks in Seaside, CA. Photo from Byron Chin.

I know there are technically no "seagulls", but you all know who I'm talking about. There are primarily three locally nesting gull species: the Western Gull is the main species that nests on rooftops around the Monterey Peninsula, Moss Landing, and nearly any bluff or building within a mile of the coast. If you're in Seaside, you'll have the opportunity to see the Heermann's Gull and California Gull colonies that nest on the buildings along Broadway Avenue and Del Monte Avenue. And while many gull species are a challenge to tell apart, these three species have a similar life history. And many of the chicks are at the stage where they are testing out their wings. Late summer means it's time to fly!

Image: Gull chick exercising its wings. They have to practice and build up their muscles. GIF from Permuted.

But sometimes there are misfires, and instead of soaring effortlessly like their parents, they plop down onto the ground with a thud. If that doesn't cause any damage (baby birds are pretty bouncy and resilient) they end up wandering in traffic, since many of the nest sites are on buildings surrounded by a sea of cars and pavement. A rooftop nest is nice and safe from terrestrial predators, but if the chicks end up in the road, they are at risk of being run over by cars. Please drive extra cautiously when you are in urban areas with tall buildings, and when gulls are flying low over the road or are in the road. Don't assume they will deftly fly out of your way - many of these young birds simply can't. I've seen quite a few flattened chicks on my walks in downtown Monterey, and it's a tragedy that can be prevented if we all drive cautiously, pay attention, and don't assume the bird will fly. Give these little guys a chance at being a gull! Gulls will be fledging from mid-July through mid-August. Drive safe.

If you see an injured gull, you can of course call the SPCA for Monterey County Wildlife Rehabilitation Center at (831) 264-5427.