The Iceland Gull is a largish gull, although relatively slender and light-weight. In length, it can measure from 50 to 64 cm (20 to 25 in), wingspan is from 115 to 150 cm (45 to 59 in) and weight is from 480 to 1,100 g. It is smaller and thinner billed than the very large Glaucous Gull, and is usually smaller than the Herring Gull. It takes four years to reach maturity.

Habitat and Distribution

This species breeds in the Arctic regions of Canada and Greenland, but not Iceland, where it is only seen in the winter. It is migratory, wintering from the North Atlantic as far south as the British Isles and the eastern USA, as well as in the interior of North America as far west as the western Great Lakes. It is much scarcer in Europe than the similar Glaucous Gull. They breed on coasts and cliffs. Their scavenging habitats include garbage dumps, sewage outlets.


These are omnivores eating fish, molluscs, offal, scraps, and eggs. These birds forage while flying, picking up food at or just below the water's surface, also feeds while walking or swimming.


They build a nest lined with grass, moss, or seaweed on the ground or cliff. Normally, 2-3 light brown eggs are laid.

Calls and Songs

The call is a `laughing` cry like Herring Gull, but higher pitched.