Yes. There are several gull (often referred to as seagulls) species that can be found regularly in Iowa lakes, marshes and rivers.
As per Iowabirds.org, late October and November draw significant numbers of waterfowl and Gulls to Saylorville Lake (Johnston, Iowa), Big Creek State Park (Polk City, Iowa) and Jester Park (Granger, Iowa) area.
Thousands of gulls quickly move through Lake Red Rock Project (Knoxville, Iowa) area during March to early May. Several thousand gulls and comparatively fewer shorebirds congregate at the reservoir in late summer in preparation for fall migration, which trails off in November.
From March through November, Ring-billed Gulls can be spotted at the Ada Hayden Park in Ames, Iowa.
Gull species that can be spotted in Iowa area includes:
Franklin’s Gull
Bonaparte’s Gull
Ring-billed Gull
Herring Gull
Thayer’s Gull
Lesser Black-backed Gull
Glaucous Gull
Sabine’s Gull
Birdwatching is one of the fastest growing hobbies in the United States, and may soon eclipse golfing as the nation’s most favored pastime and recreational activity. You have joined the ranks of over 46 million people, who find nature and the marvelous world of birds to be a captivating hobby.
But be careful, birdwatching, or “birding” as the indoctrinated refer to the activity, is an addictive habit! Check out some tips for beginning birders at Bedfordaudubon.org.