Species profile
About this species
The Iceland Gull is a medium-sized gull that breeds in the Arctic regions of Canada & Greenland, wintering along the coasts of the North Atlantic. It is characterised by its pale plumage, white wingtips, & gentle rounded head profile, which helps distinguish it from the similar Glaucous Gull. Immature birds display a buffy-white plumage that gradually becomes whiter as they mature over several years.
Iceland Gulls favour coastal environments including harbours, fishing ports, estuaries, & rocky shorelines during winter. They breed on sea cliffs & coastal tundra in Arctic Canada & Greenland, often nesting in loose colonies on remote rocky outcrops.
Where to photograph
Where our trips feature this species
You can photograph Iceland Gull with us in Iceland.
These departures are part of our Europe programme.
In the field, Robin Lowry helps guests make the most of these encounters.
Field notes
Photography notes
Winter months from November to March offer the best chances, as birds move south to coastal areas of Britain, Ireland & the North Atlantic. Early morning light provides the most flattering conditions for capturing the gull's pale colouring.
Visit harbours & fishing ports in winter where Iceland Gulls gather to scavenge, giving close-up opportunities against natural backdrops. Use a fast shutter speed of at least 1/1000s to freeze wing motion when capturing birds in flight or landing on water. Position yourself with the light behind you to bring out the subtle pale tones & wingtip detail in the bird's plumage.
Available holidays
Trips featuring Iceland Gull
The holidays below are pulled from the same species relationship, so the guide stays tied to live departures rather than becoming a static article.