Nest Site Selection by Kelp Gulls in Southern Africa

Abstract

We studied six colonies of Kelp Gulls (Larus dominicanus) in South Africa and Namibia, including mainland beach and cliff, and island sites. In the 20 distinct habitats examined, the gulls generally nested in somewhat horizontal areas with either intermediate vegetation cover (25 to 50%) or protruding rocks which provided similar cover. Characteristics favored for nesting were studied by comparing nest sites with matched points 2 m away. In all habitats the gulls selected flatter areas (mean slope less than 15°) than the matched points (mean slopes up to 70°). Selection of nest sites with more cover may serve to reduce chick loss by providing shelter (vegetation or rock crevices), and the gulls' choice of low rather than tall vegetation may ensure that adults can escape rapidly from the nest.