Look: Seagulls in UAE, the graceful migratory birds

The migrating birds come to the UAE every winter from Siberia and Mediterranean regions

Published: February 06, 2024 18:28 Photos and Text by Ahmed Ramzan, Senior Visual Journalist

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Families witness and feed hundreds of seagulls near Ajman Beach. In the winter months, seagulls grace the skies of the United Arab Emirates, adding a touch of natural allure to the coastal landscape. Along the shimmering shores of Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman and beyond, these majestic birds seek refuge from colder climates, finding sanctuary amidst the warmth of the UAE's temperate winter. Image Credit: Ahmed Ramzan/Gulf News

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Gathering near serene inland lakes and expansive coastal waters, seagulls engage in their timeless rituals of flight and foraging, their elegant silhouettes casting shadows against urban skylines. Image Credit: Ahmed Ramzan/Gulf News

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As sunsets, the migratory birds and seagulls fly towards the ocean, following the direction of the wind. Image Credit: Ahmed Ramzan/Gulf News

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As transient visitors, they bring a sense of seasonal rhythm to the Emirates, reminding residents and visitors alike of the interconnectedness between the natural world and the vibrant tapestry of life in this dynamic region. Image Credit: Ahmed Ramzan/Gulf News

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In the coastal cities of the UAE, people often gather by the shores during winter, delighting in the simple pleasure of feeding seagulls. Against the backdrop of azure waters or an open area near the beach, this shared interaction fosters a harmonious connection between humans and nature, creating moments of joy and unity. Image Credit: Ahmed Ramzan/Gulf News

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A resident feeds seagulls in Bur Dubai. Image Credit: Ahmed Ramzan/Gulf News

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Seagulls are a diverse group of seabirds belonging to the family Laridae. They are commonly found along coastlines and near inland bodies of water worldwide, ranging from polar regions to tropical seas. Known for their adaptability and opportunistic feeding habits, seagulls have a varied diet that includes fish, insects, small mammals, eggs, and scavenged scraps. Image Credit: Ahmed Ramzan/Gulf News

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Seagulls flock over the sky of Sharjah. Seagulls play essential roles in coastal ecosystems, contributing to nutrient cycling through their feeding habits and serving as indicators of environmental health. Image Credit: Ahmed Ramzan/Gulf News

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While they are admired for their grace in flight and role in marine ecosystems, seagulls can also be considered pests in urban areas, where they scavenge food scraps and sometimes create nuisances for humans. Image Credit: Ahmed Ramzan/Gulf News

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Overall, seagulls are fascinating and adaptable birds that have captured the imagination of people worldwide with their beauty, intelligence, and resourcefulness. Image Credit: Ahmed Ramzan

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There are approximately 50 species of Seagulls found throughout the world. Image Credit: Ahmed Ramzan/Gulf News

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They are more adept at walking on land than most other seabirds, and the smaller gulls tend to be more manoeuvrable while walking. Image Credit: Ahmed Ramzan/Gulf News

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The average life expectancy for most seagulls is between 15 and 20 years. Image Credit: Ahmed Ramzan/Gulf News

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