Original photo series: Birds of California #18: Heermann's Gull

The Heermann's Gull, Larus heermanni, is perhaps the most attractive gull of California. Adults of this species have a bright red bill, and breeding adults have a white head contrasting with a dark body.

This species is one of the "Three Amigos" that breed in Mexico and come to California in the summer, along with Elegant Tern and Brown Pelican.

Though abundant off the Pacific Coast in central California, the Heermann's Gull is vulnerable because nearly of all the breeding occurs on one island in the Gulf of California.

I photographed these Heermann's Gulls in Santa Cruz County, California. Like most gulls, this species is not too wary. They allow for pretty close approach if one behaves respectfully.