Although they are familiar and amusing characters, gulls are frequently dismissed as common "parking lot" birds or because their diverse species can be hard to identify. Both assumptions disregard the beauty and grace of gulls, which are among the most approachable of North America's birds. This photographic field guide provides a user-friendly introduction to the plumages of 27 North American gull species in different stages of maturity. Ranging in size from the dove-like Little Gull to the eagle-like Great Black-backed Gull, their behaviour and habitats are equally varied. With more than 500 colour photos, detailed captions, and fold-out comparison guides, Gulls of North America allows readers to better appreciate these charismatic birds by learning shortcuts for easy identification in the field.
Fred Shaffer worked for the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission for over 30 years and became interested in gulls by observing the large flocks that gathered each day at Schoolhouse Pond just outside his office. He enjoys observing gulls in all their diversity and plumages and has documented his gull observations from Schoolhouse Pond in Maryland Birdlife. He has studied gulls in their natural habitat across North America and photographed the many plumages of each species.