Andean Gull (Chroicocephalus serranus)

Identification & Behavior: ~47 cm (18.5 in). The Andean Gull in basic plumage is mostly white with light gray back and a distinctive black spot in the ear area. The bill and legs are black. Birds in alternate plumage show a black head and pale eye ring.  Juvenile birds are mostly white with a black ear spot, brown mottled on the back and reddish or dusky bill and legs. In basic plumage, it is similar to the basic plumage of a Gray-hooded Gull but is distinguished by smaller size, and a mostly white head with a black ear spot. Also, see Brown-hooded Gull.

Status: The Andean Gull is fairly common near bodies of water in the Andes where it ranges at elevations between 3000 – 4400 m. It is also a rare visitor at lagoons and estuaries along the coast of Peru. It also occurs in Ec, Bo, and Ch.

Name in Spanish: Gaviota Andina.

Sub-species: Andean Gull (Chroicocephalus serranus), Tschudi 1844.

Meaning of Name: Chroicocephalus: Gr. khroizö= color and kephalos, kephale= his head. serranus: L. originating from the Andes of South America.

See more of the Family laridae