Seagulls generally do not fly during severe storms. Instead, their unique behaviors before a storm serve as natural indicators of significant changes in weather. These birds are highly attuned to atmospheric conditions, which influence their actions long before a storm fully develops.
How Seagulls Predict Incoming Storms
Long before heavy rains and strong winds arrive, large storms are accompanied by drastic drops in air pressure. Seagulls possess an innate ability to detect these atmospheric shifts, which triggers a specific set of behaviors.
- Flying Low Over Water: One of the most noticeable behaviors is flying exceptionally low over the surface of the water. This can be a way for them to conserve energy or to respond to the changing air density that makes sustained flight at higher altitudes more challenging during periods of falling barometric pressure.
- Staying Grounded: In anticipation of a major storm, seagulls may even opt to stay grounded completely. This behavior can occur an hour or so before the storm actually hits, providing a clear natural warning sign of deteriorating weather conditions.
The Science Behind Their Instincts
The primary reason for these behavioral changes is their sensitivity to barometric pressure. As air pressure drops significantly with an approaching storm, seagulls react by seeking lower altitudes or stable ground. This instinct helps them conserve energy, find shelter, and avoid the dangerous conditions of a storm at sea or in the air. Their actions are a testament to their remarkable adaptation to their marine environment and their ability to use environmental cues for survival.
