Lava Gull

The Lava Gull, known scientifically as Leucophaeus fuliginosus and colloquially as the dusky gull, is a medium-sized member of the hooded gull group. This bird, with its sooty brown to black head, dark gray wings with a distinctive white leading edge, and paler gray belly, is a striking figure. The upper tail is white, transitioning to gray lower down, and the bill and legs are a deep black. A notable feature is the scarlet interior of the mouth, which contrasts with the white upper and lower eyebrows framed by red lids. Adults typically measure between 51 to 55 cm in length and weigh around 380 g.

Identification Tips

When identifying the Lava Gull, look for the non-seasonally varying sooty head, the contrasting white line on the dark gray wings, and the scarlet inside of the mouth. The bird's dark gray body stands out against the paler belly, and the black bill and legs are key features. Immature gulls are generally dark brown, which can help distinguish them from adults.

Habitat

The Lava Gull is endemic to the Galapagos Islands, where it can be found in coastal areas, often nesting under the protection of vegetation near calm waters such as lagoons.

Distribution

This species is exclusively found on the Galapagos Islands, with significant populations on Santa Cruz, Isabela, San Cristobal, and Genovesa. It is considered the rarest gull in the world, with an estimated population of 300-600 individuals.

Behaviour

Lava Gulls are solitary nesters, maintaining a distance of at least 100 meters from other nesting pairs. They are highly territorial, defending breeding territories of approximately 2000 square meters. Breeding is opportunistic and not confined to a single season. After a 32-day incubation period, two olive-colored, well-camouflaged eggs hatch. Fledglings take to the wing at 55 days and receive continued parental care for several weeks thereafter.

Diet and Feeding

As omnivores, Lava Gulls scavenge, steal from nests, and catch fish, small crustaceans, and newly hatched lizards, iguanas, and turtles. They are also known to feed on sea lion placenta. On Genovesa Island, they take advantage of the kleptoparasitic behavior of Magnificent Frigatebirds by seizing opportunities when these birds attempt to steal fish from other seabirds.

Conservation status

The Lava Gull is classified as "Vulnerable" on the IUCN Red List. Although the population is currently stable, the species is at risk due to its small numbers and various threats.