Why Are Gulls Usually Called Seagulls?

Gulls are popularly known as seagulls and, although they can travel some distance inland, they are usually found along the coastline. Unlike albatrosses, gulls are not true ocean birds but they are closely tied to coastal regions where they scavenge for food from rubbish dumps and fishing vessels. Their cries are associated with all seaside towns and villages everywhere in the UK.

Gulls can migrate over great distances, but always stick to coastlines when doing so. They are lazy fliers, or at least they make it look very easy and never seem to expend much effort. They rest between flights by sitting on the surface of the water and bobbing up and down. They keep afloat when they do this by the air in their lungs and air sacs and are prevented from water logging by their oily plumage which resists water.