The Mongolian gull is a large gull in the large white-headed gull (Larus) complex which breeds in interior eastern Asia.
Region
East and Central Asia
Typical Environment
Breeds on islands and shorelines of large steppe lakes and reservoirs across Mongolia and adjacent northern China, with some populations reaching southern Siberia. During migration it follows major rivers and inland waterbodies, gathering at large lakes and wetlands. In winter it occurs widely along the coasts of the Bohai and Yellow Seas, the East China Sea, the Korean Peninsula, and parts of Japan, and also at large inland waters. It frequents estuaries, mudflats, harbors, fish ports, and urban landfills. Occasional vagrants appear farther south along the Southeast Asian coast.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2500 m
Climate Zone
Continental
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Mongolian gull is part of the complex of large white‑headed gulls and is often confused with Vega and Caspian gulls; careful attention to mantle shade, wing-tip pattern, and structure helps separate them. It breeds mainly around large steppe lakes in Mongolia and adjacent northern China, then moves to East Asian coasts in winter. Ringing and tracking show long migratory movements between inland breeding sites and coastal wintering areas. It readily exploits fisheries and human refuse, which can influence local distribution in winter.
Adult Mongolian gulls swimming on Lake Baikal
Temperament
social and assertive
Flight Pattern
strong flier with steady wingbeats and soaring glides
Social Behavior
Breeds colonially, often on low islands or peninsulas where it nests on the ground in shallow scrapes lined with vegetation. Pairs are seasonally monogamous and defend a small territory around the nest. Outside the breeding season it forms large flocks at feeding and roosting sites, often mixing with other gull species.
Migratory Pattern
Seasonal migrant
Song Description
Vocalizations include loud, laughing long-calls and harsh yelps typical of large gulls, used in displays and territorial disputes. Softer mews, barks, and contact notes are given within colonies and in feeding flocks.
