Larus delawarensis can be found along lakes, rivers and coastlines of North America, and often wanders to western Europe. It is no longer classified as a rarity in Ireland and Great Britian, with several birds regularly wintering there.

The Ring-billed Gull nests near lakes, rivers and the coast in Canada and northern U.S. They nest colonially on the ground, often on islands, and tend to be faithful to their nesting site, and sometimes their mates, from year to year.

They forage or scavenge for food, and will often steal food from other birds. They have an omnivorous diet, eating insects, fish, grain, eggs, earthworms and rodents. Being opportunistic, they've adapted to taking food left behind or unattended by people, and is regarded as a pest by many beach-goers.

The Ring-billed Gull was hunted in the late 19th century for its plumage, but has made a drastic recovery, making itself one of the most common gulls in North America.