Larus dominicanus

This adult Kelp Gull was present but very elusive in St. John’s in December 2016. It is the only record for Newfoundland, and among the most far-flung records of this Southern Hemisphere species in the world. Possibly the same bird was recorded in Nova Scotia the following year. (Photo: Alvan Buckley, December 25 2016)

Status: Very Rare (<5 records)

Origins: Occurs primarily in the Southern Hemisphere (including South America, the Antarctic Peninsula, southern Africa, Australia, New Zealand and points between). It is a very occasional breeder further north and a rare visitor to North America.

Record Details:  One record for Newfoundland: An adult was first photographed (but not immediately identified) at Quidi Vidi Lake, St. John’s on December 23 2016. It was relocated very briefly in the following two days (December 24-25) before disappearing completely.

* NOTE – This website is not an official account and “may” contain incorrect information and/or details of unconfirmed records. *