Migration patterns of the Mongolian gull (Larus mongolicus, Sushkin, 1925) in northern Mongolia

The Mongolian Gull ( Larus mongolicus ) is a widely distributed species, yet it remains one of the least understood in terms of its migration behavior. This study investigates the migration patterns and habitat usage of the Mongolian Gull. Using satellite tracking data, we collected information on 20 complete migrations from 7 individuals between 2020 and 2023. The tracked gulls migrated an average distance of 2405.5 km [standard deviation (SD) ± 327.9] in autumn and 2219.9 km (SD ± 666.5) in spring, traveling between their breeding grounds in northern Mongolia and their wintering sites in the Yellow Sea region. These wintering locations include the coastal areas of Shanghai, Yantai, Laizhou Bay, Bohai Bay, Liaodong Bay, and the coastal region of Donggang in China. In South Korea, they have been observed in Goyang, as well as along the coastal region of Gukhwado Island and in Gunsan. This study reveals the variability in migration routes among the sub-population of Mongolian Gulls in northern Mongolia, highlighting different stopovers and distinct migratory patterns. Based on this new understanding of the biogeographical subpopulation structure of the Mongolian Gull, it is crucial to integrate data on population size, distribution throughout their annual life cycle, and conservation status across their range.