Gull vs. Seagull: Know the Difference
By Shumaila Saeed || Updated on December 25, 2023
Gulls are a family of birds encompassing various species, while "seagull" is a non-scientific term often used to describe any gull, especially those near seas.
Key Differences
Gulls are part of the Laridae family, comprising numerous species with varied sizes and habitats. Seagull, in contrast, is not a scientifically recognized term; it colloquially refers to gulls typically found near seashores.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 27, 2023
The word 'gull' encompasses all species within the family Laridae, showcasing a wide range of behaviors and appearances. Seagull, however, is a misnomer implying that these birds are exclusively sea-dwelling, which is not accurate.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 27, 2023
Gulls have adapted to diverse environments, from coastal areas to urban landscapes. The term 'seagull' simplifies this diversity, often misleadingly suggesting that these birds are solely coastal.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 27, 2023
In scientific and ornithological contexts, 'gull' is the accurate term, reflecting the bird's taxonomy and diverse species. 'Seagull' is more commonly used in everyday language but lacks scientific precision.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 27, 2023
The study and conservation of gulls require understanding the specific species and their unique needs. Using 'seagull' generically can obscure the nuances and differences among the various gull species.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 27, 2023
ADVERTISEMENT
Comparison Chart
Scientific Accuracy
Accurate, refers to a family of birds
Informal, lacks scientific specificity
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 27, 2023
Habitat Diversity
Inhabits varied environments, not just coastal
Often implies coastal habitat only
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 27, 2023
Usage
Used in scientific and ornithological contexts
Common in everyday, non-scientific language
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 27, 2023
Species Inclusion
Encompasses all species within the Laridae family
Suggests a subset, typically those near seas
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 27, 2023
Public Perception
Less commonly used by the general public
More familiar and commonly used term
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 27, 2023
ADVERTISEMENT
Gull and Seagull Definitions
Gull
Gulls are resourceful, often scavenging for food.
The gull snatched a discarded sandwich from the park bench.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 27, 2023
Seagull
Seagulls often interact with humans in coastal cities.
The seagull stole a chip from an unsuspecting tourist.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 27, 2023
Gull
Gulls are medium to large birds, often grey or white.
A grey gull landed on the pier, eyeing the fishermen's catch.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 27, 2023
Seagull
Seagulls are known for their association with marine environments.
Seagulls gathered on the dock, waiting for the fishing boats.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 27, 2023
Gull
Known for their loud, harsh calls.
The morning was filled with the harsh calls of gulls.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 27, 2023
ADVERTISEMENT
Seagull
In colloquial usage, seagull refers to any common species of gull.
A child threw bread crumbs to the seagulls at the shore.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 27, 2023
Gull
Any of various chiefly coastal seabirds of the family Laridae, having long wings, webbed feet, a thick, slightly hooked beak, and usually gray and white plumage.
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023
Seagull
A common name for a gull, especially those near seas.
A seagull swooped down to the water, catching a fish.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 27, 2023
Seagull
Often depicted in popular culture as coastal birds.
The seagull's cry was a staple sound along the beachfront.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 27, 2023
Seagull
Any of several white, often dark backed birds of the family Laridae having long pointed wings and short legs.
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023
Seagull
(orthography) The symbol ̼ , which combines under a letter as a sort of accent.
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023
Seagull
To run in the back line rather than concentrate on primary positional duties in open play.
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023
Gull
To deceive; to cheat; to mislead; to trick; to defraud.
The rulgar, gulled into rebellion, armed.
I'm not gulling him for the emperor's service.
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023
Gull
One of many species of long-winged sea birds of the genus Larus and allied genera.
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023
Gull
Fool or hoax;
The immigrant was duped because he trusted everyone
You can't fool me!
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023
Gull
A bird of the Laridae family, known for its adaptability.
The gull soared above the city, scanning for food.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 27, 2023
Gull
Gulls have a worldwide distribution, from polar to tropical regions.
Gulls were seen even in the remote Arctic, thriving in the harsh climate.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 27, 2023
Repeatedly Asked Queries
What is a gull?
A gull is a bird belonging to the Laridae family, with various species and widespread distribution.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 27, 2023
Are all seagulls found near the sea?
Despite the name, not all "seagulls" (gulls) are found exclusively near the sea.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 27, 2023
Do gulls migrate?
Some gull species migrate, while others are resident or nomadic.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 27, 2023
Can gulls live in urban areas?
Yes, many gull species have adapted to urban environments.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 27, 2023
Are seagulls considered pests?
In some areas, gulls (referred to as seagulls) are considered pests due to their scavenging habits.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 27, 2023
Is seagull a scientific term?
No, seagull is not a scientific term; it's a colloquial name often used for gulls, especially those near seas.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 27, 2023
What do gulls eat?
Gulls have a varied diet, including fish, insects, and food scraps.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 27, 2023
Is it safe to feed seagulls?
Feeding seagulls can disrupt their natural diet and behavior, and is often discouraged.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 27, 2023
What are the main threats to gulls?
Main threats include habitat loss, pollution, and human disturbances.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 27, 2023
How long do gulls live?
The lifespan of gulls varies by species, with some living up to 20 years or more.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 27, 2023
Are gulls social birds?
Gulls are generally social and often found in flocks.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 27, 2023
Are seagulls protected by law?
In many regions, gulls are protected under wildlife conservation laws.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 27, 2023
How do seagulls nest?
Gulls nest in colonies, often on the ground or cliffs, and lay 2-3 eggs.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 27, 2023
Can seagulls drink saltwater?
Many gulls have special glands to excrete salt, allowing them to drink saltwater.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 27, 2023
Why do seagulls follow ships?
Gulls often follow ships for potential food sources thrown overboard.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 27, 2023
Can seagulls carry diseases?
Like many birds, gulls can carry diseases, though risk to humans is generally low.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 27, 2023
Do all gulls have white feathers?
Not all gulls are white; their plumage varies by species and age.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 27, 2023
Do gulls mate for life?
Many gull species form long-term pair bonds, though not necessarily for life.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 27, 2023
Why do seagulls scream?
Gulls vocalize for various reasons, including communication and territory defense.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 27, 2023
Share this page
Link for your blog / website
HTML
Link to share via messenger
About Author
Written by
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed, an expert content creator with 6 years of experience, specializes in distilling complex topics into easily digestible comparisons, shining a light on the nuances that both inform and educate readers with clarity and accuracy.
Shumaila Saeed
Hifza Nasir
