The World of Seagulls in Saint John
When strolling along the picturesque waterfront of Saint John, one can hardly ignore the lively and sometimes raucous presence of seagulls. These coastal avian residents are a common sight in many coastal cities, including Saint John. In this blog post, we'll dive into the fascinating world of seagulls in Saint John, exploring their behaviours, their unique characteristics, and the best ways to observe them in their natural habitat.
The Abundance of Seagulls in Saint John
Saint John's proximity to the Bay of Fundy provides an ideal habitat for seagulls. The bay's rich marine life and abundant food sources, such as fish and crustaceans, attract these opportunistic birds. The seagull population in Saint John has also been supported by the availability of human-generated food waste in urban areas. This easy access to food has contributed to their thriving population along the waterfront and in nearby neighbourhoods.
Seagulls: Unique Characteristics
The seagulls in Saint John are primarily Herring Gulls and Great Black-backed Gulls. These species are well-adapted to coastal environments and have distinct features that set them apart from their counterparts in other parts of Canada. Herring Gulls are known for their striking white and gray plumage, while Great Black-backed Gulls are easily recognizable due to their large size and contrasting black upperparts.
To Feed or Not to Feed
Feeding seagulls might seem like a fun and harmless activity, but it's important to consider the potential consequences. While it may provide entertainment, feeding seagulls can lead to aggressive behavior as they compete for food. It can also contribute to an overreliance on human food, which is less nutritious than their natural diet. If you're keen on interacting with seagulls, consider providing them with natural food sources like fish or crustaceans rather than processed human food.
The Symphony of Seagull Calls
Seagulls are notorious for their loud and varied vocalizations. Their calls serve several purposes, including communication, establishing territory, and alerting others to the presence of food. Additionally, They have distinct calls for signalling danger, expressing aggression, and coordinating group movements. Observant listeners can pick up on these cues to gain insight into the interactions among seagulls.While seagulls can be noisy throughout the day, their vocal activity tends to peak during the morning hours as they search for breakfast along the shoreline.
Skirmishes and Social Structure
Seagulls are known to engage in fights, particularly during the breeding season in March and April when competition for nesting sites and mates is fierce. These skirmishes can involve aggressive displays, posturing, and occasionally, physical altercations. The social hierarchy within seagull colonies is determined by factors like age and dominance, which influence their interactions and access to resources.
Prime Seagull-Watching Spots
For those interested in observing seagulls in their natural habitat, Saint John offers a range of excellent locations. The waterfront areas, including Market Slip and the Reversing Falls, provide ample opportunities to watch these birds as they interact with each other and the surrounding environment. Remember to respect their space and refrain from feeding them, unless you are feeding them fish or crustions.
Seagulls are an integral part of the coastal ecosystem in Saint John, adding character to the city's waterfront scenery. While their behaviours and characteristics may sometimes raise questions, understanding their role in the environment enriches our appreciation for these adaptable and resourceful birds. As you enjoy the sights and sounds of Saint John's seagulls, remember that responsible observation and conservation efforts can help ensure a harmonious coexistence between humans and these coastal avian residents.
