Vega Gull
Larus vegae
A large, sturdy gull of East Asia. Adults have a fairly pale gray back, pale eye, and dull pinkish legs. Takes four years for immatures to progress from mostly brown to fully white and gray adult plumage; intermediate plumages are often mottled and messy. Extremely variable plumage can make identification tricky. Occurs inland and along the coast, frequenting river mouths, harbors, beaches, lakes, and ponds. Often forms flocks with other gulls. Back color of adults generally a shade darker than that of American Herring Gull. Very similar to Mongolian Gull, and separation is tricky, but has a larger head and bill; adults also generally have pinker legs.
Taxonomy
- Scientific name
- Larus vegae
- Order
- Charadriiformes
- Family
- Laridae
- Genus
- Larus
Photos
Distribution
Bird Calls
Other Birds
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Muscisaxicola maclovianus
Small and rather distinctive terrestrial flycatcher, breeding in the southern Andes at high elevation and migrating north in winter where it can also be found in lowlands. Breeds in open rocky areas, sometimes down to level of open forest. Migrants often in flocks, sometimes a few hundred birds, as on playing fields and beaches. Upperparts relatively dark gray with blackish face mask, and an inconspicuous dark rusty nape patch. Resident Falkland population larger and plainer overall, likely a different species; found on moorland and beaches.
Green-headed Oriole
Oriolus chlorocephalus
Old World oriole with mostly yellow plumage, a dull-green hood, and a red bill. Found in forest, forest edge, lush woodland, and adjacent secondary habitats, at low and middle elevations. Song is a series of slurred, liquid whistles, and calls include a raspy, up-slurred whine. Similar to African Black-headed Oriole, but with a good view, easily separated by the green rather than black hood. Often found in the same areas as Eurasian Golden and African Golden Orioles, but distinguished by being hooded rather than yellow-headed.
Pied Cormorant
Phalacrocorax varius
Large black and white cormorant with a long ivory-colored bill. Note black "trousers" that help distinguish it from Little Pied Cormorant, which also has a shorter yellow bill. Common in marine environments, but also on inland waterways and large dams.
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