Diurnal movement patterns of the Silver Gull, Larus novaehollandiae Stephens, at Sydney airport

Abstract

The diurnal movement patterns of silver gulls, Larus novaehollandiae, were found to be related to localized sources of food and shelter. Peak movements occurred at dawn and dusk when the gulls flew between roosting and feeding areas. Peak movements also occurred before and after low tide when gulls flew to and from the beach where they fed on intertidal animals. The gull showed a marked tendency to fly over water rather than over land. Changes in the availability and location of food and shelter were followed by corresponding changes in the movement patterns.