Galapagos Gulls

Lava Gull and Swallow-tailed Gull

Lava Gull is one of the rarest gulls in the world, possibly the rarest. Its breeding population is confined to the Galapagos Islands and is estimated at fewer than 300 pairs. Cerro Brujo on San Cristobal Island on 9 November 2014.

First year Lava Gull at Puerto Ayoro on Santa Cruz Island. In first year plumage, it lacks the large white crescents above and below the eye, and it shows a contrast of older juvenal feathers and dark grey new feathers. I noticed the long central claw on its webbed feet. Adults have this feature too. 11 November 2014

Adult Lava Gull at the fish market in Puerto Ayoro, where they are easy to see. Note long central claw on its feet. I wonder if this is an adaptation to rough, sharp lava rocks along the coast in its natural habitat. 11 November 2014.

Lava Gull at left end of counter scavenging at fish market in Puerto Ayoro, Santa Cruz Island, Galapagos, on 11 November 2014.

A pair of Swallow-tailed Gulls on South Plaza on 8 November 2014.

Swallow-tailed Gull in flight showing the "swallow-tail " and unmistakable open wing pattern that is similar to Sabine's Gull. South Plaza on 8 November 2014.

Adult Swallow-tailed Gull with very young chick on South Plaza, Galapagos on 8 November 2014.

Another young chick on South Plaza, Galapagos on 8 November 2014.

Swallow-tailed Gull in juvenal plumage on Genovesa, Galapagos, on 13 November 2014.

Short video of an adult Swallow-tailed Gull and its begging young

A juvenile Swallow-tailed Gull spreads its wings, Genovesa, Galapagos on 13 November 2014.

Link to Franklin's Gulls in Galapagos

Link to Galapagos 2014 with Quest Nature Tours