April’s Creature

April's creature feature was the Laughing Gull, Larus atricilla, a medium size gull known for its laughing call.  Populations have increased due to greater protection since the last century, however loss of coastal marsh habitat is still a concern.  Laughing Gulls eat insects, crabs, fish, berries, and garbage.  Eggs usually hatch in late June.  Judge C. Nettle thanks all who submitted guesses and congratulates contest winner Angela Cilia of Atlantic Highlands, NJ!

June’s Creature Feature

June's creature feature is a small, silvery fish.  These bony foodfish are fast-growing and short-lived, with few living more than 3 years.  They are found from Florida to Newfoundland, but most schools live in the region from Cape Hatteras to Southern New England.  They migrate in response to temperature, preferring warmer waters.  For a chance to win a COA T-shirt, submit your guess to Judge Sal Mon by mail, fax, email (18 Hartshorne Dr., Suite 2, Highlands, NJ 07732; 732-872-8041; science@CleanOceanAction.org) or by visiting CleanOceanAction.org.  Only one entry per person please.