Glaucous-winged Gull (Western Gull or large Larus gull species)

Large, robust gull with pale gray mantle, white head and underparts, and distinctive wingtip patterns. Known for scavenging behavior, powerful flight, and loud, laughing vocalizations.

Muted grayish-brown to dark gray with lighter gray edging and a pale whitish-grey tip and frosted appearance

Tightly interlocked pennaceous vane with strong hooklets, intact barbs showing moderate weathering

Stiff, durable, semi-glossy upper surface with a slightly powdery bloom typical of waterbird flight feathers

Sturdy white shaft, greyish-brown coloration with frosted pale tipping, and characteristic large gull flight feather asymmetry

Marine coastal environments, rocky shores, sandy beaches, estuaries, pelagic waters, and inland landfills or agricultural fields

Pacific coast of North America from Alaska down to northwestern Mexico, ranging across the North Pacific

Important marine scavenger and apex predator of intertidal zones, serving as a key indicator of coastal ecosystem health

Western Gull (Larus occidentalis) and Herring Gull (Larus argentatus), distinguished by exact shade of grey and tip patterning

Gulls have special supraorbital salt glands above their eyes that allow them to drink saltwater and excrete excess salt through their nostrils

Good condition with minor wear along the edges and some sun-bleaching, typical of a naturally molted beach-found feather