Breeding throughout north central and northwestern North America, Bonaparte's Gulls can be expected anywhere in Alberta. They nests in the boreal forest region throughout the northern half of the province. Southernmost breeding records are from the foothills near Caroline.
Bonaparte's, named after the nephew of the French emperor, arrive in mid April and throughout May. At that time, they may be seen in small numbers along the Bow River, Glenmore Reservoir and other lakes and wetlands throughout the prairie region of the province. They are more abundant in September and October, before departing to coastal areas for the winter.
In summer, they chiefly feed on flying insects or ones plucked from vegetation. Like Franklin's Gulls, they will follow the tractor, gleaning insects and worms from the freshly exposed soil. In winter, small fish, crustacea and marine worms form the staple diet.
Most nesting is usally in small loose colonies. Unlike other gulls, nests are regularly placed in coniferous trees, rarely in bulrush-filled marshes, usually near a muskeg lake, pond or river. Composed of slender twigs, grass, moss and lichens, it is saddled onto a horizontal branch, one to six m (4-20 feet) high. The three eggs are incubated by both sexes, but chiefly by the female, for 24 days.
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Where to find Bonaparte's Gulls in Alberta
Bonaparte's Gulls pass through the Weaselhead/Glenmore Park area in small numbers during May and October. Outside of these two months, the species is rare or uncommon in summer months and absent during winter months. Watch for them on and around the Glenmore Reservoir. Brent Johner
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SHAUNEEN O'BRIEN
for serving as the TALK ABOUT WILDLIFE Administrator this year
BRENT JOHNER
for serving as the Society's 6th PRESIDENT (2000-2007)