Gulls

We don't have seagulls in Singapore. Or at least not in the way they exist in Europe.

Gulls are seabirds, which have a very strong connection with the coast in England. The sight of these birds, and the sound of their distinctive squawky call are as one with 'the seaside' in the UK. As soon as you hear gulls, it makes you think of the coast. And I've been to other countries in Europe, and the USA, where gulls are basically everywhere that there is ocean.

But I've just been staying at a beachside apartment in Singapore, and something is missing... it's lovely be near the sand and the water.. but no squawking grey seabirds! To me, it doesn't feel properly like the coast! I've been to beaches in Asia before, and not noticed this. 

Turns out gulls do lurk in Asia (and nearly everywhere else on earth, including away from the coast and near fresh water, apparently) but they're much less common in the tropics. 

In fact, gulls are not particularly gorgeous animals.They're not that beautiful, enjoy scavenging and can be quite aggressive. But they still hold that important association with the ocean for me. Here's a video of some Herring Gulls (one of the most common in the UK) and next time you hear this sound, you'll know you are near water! 

Thanks to Ani Male for the YouTube video.