Since everyone loves Gulls so much, Great Basin Bird Observatory has decided to capitalize on this and lead a Gull ID walk! Sparks Marina is the place to be for Gulls and Gull enthusiasts. These hardy travelers, mostly from the north, are at their peak diversity in the Reno area in the winter months. Gulls migrate later than many other taxa, and are rather tolerant of cold temperatures. Some travel from the Arctic north, and get here on purpose; others prefer to winter along the food-rich Pacific Coast, and end up here by accident. Some come from Northwestern Europe, and aren’t satisfied with Eastern US conditions, so continue westward. There is even a chance for Gulls from Siberia to show up here. But we don’t care where they come from, or why, we just love them for their novel behaviors and stunning beauty. And of course the way they can confound identification! Note that this is an afternoon walk, we are hoping to catch the Gulls as they are coming in to roost for the evening.

Consider reviewing GBBO’s (Somewhat lengthy) Gull Identification Webinar by Lauren Harter and Ned Bohman: https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=aF8Tw3n4l2w.

Please RSVP to outreach@gbbo.org if you are interested in attending this walk.