Laughing Gull
Leucophaeus atricilla
The summer boardwalk gull, with a black head in breeding plumage and a loud laughing call over Ocean City beaches.
Quick facts
| Group | Gull / tern |
|---|---|
| Likelihood nearby | ★★★★★ |
| Habitats | Ocean beach, Inlet, Coastal bays, Assateague State Park, Assateague National Seashore |
| Seasons (this coast) | spring, summer, fall |
How to recognize them
- Breeding adults: black head, dark gray back, white body, reddish bill.
- Winter adults lose the black hood for a smudgy ear patch.
Biology notes
- Omnivorous scavenger and forager; nests in coastal colonies on marshes and islands.
- Abundant around people—boardwalk fries are not healthy food for gulls.
Where to see them around Ocean City
- Ocean City beach, boardwalk, and Inlet—nearly unavoidable in summer.
- Assateague beaches and parking areas in season.
When to look
- Common warm months; many depart for winter, replaced partly by other gull species.
Viewing tips & etiquette
- Do not feed gulls—it increases aggression and litter conflicts on the beach.
