Mongolian Gull
Larus mongolicus
A large gull that breeds mainly inland, and migrates to the coast for the winter. Adults have a fairly pale gray back, pale eye, and dull yellow legs that can have a hint of pink coloration. Takes four years for immatures to progress from mostly brown to fully white and gray adult plumage; intermediate plumages are often mottled and messy. 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. Very similar to Vega Gull, and separation often difficult, but has a smaller head and bill; adults also generally have yellower legs.
Taxonomy
- Scientific name
- Larus mongolicus
- Order
- Charadriiformes
- Family
- Laridae
- Genus
- Larus
Photos
Distribution
Other Birds
Taiwan Cupwing
Pnoepyga formosana
Minuscule endemic songbird. Short wings, very short tail, and rather long legs give it the appearance of a brown ping-pong ball set on tiny chopsticks. Dark brown above, black-and-white scaly pattern below. Constantly shakes its wings as if cold. Moves about on the ground and in low vegetation in montane forests, where very difficult to see. Song a loud, strident, high-pitched series of three whistled phrases, with a pause after the first.
Bounty Islands Shag
Leucocarbo ranfurlyi
A large pink-footed marine shag endemic to the Bounty Islands and surrounding coastal seas. Adults are black above with a blue sheen, white below, with white patches on upper wings visible in flight. Slim hooked bill is a faded brown or pink. Orange-yellow skin at the base of bill and gape, circling the eye, brightens during breeding along with a red-orange gular pouch. A single crest is developed during breeding season. Juveniles have brown rather than black on the upperparts and pale facial skin. No other shags have been recorded on the Bounty Islands.
Black-capped Bulbul
Rubigula melanictera
Medium-sized greenish bird with a bright yellow underside and black head. Occurs in a variety of habitats, wherever there are trees, including forest, open woodlands, and gardens, in the lowlands and foothills. Usually encountered in pairs or small groups. Yellow throat and lack of black in the wing separates this species from Black-hooded Oriole. Unmarked, black head identifies Black-capped Bulbul from Yellow-eared and Yellow-browed Bulbuls. Song is series of warbling whistles, rising at the end, “wet-wet-wet-wer-wer-wer-weer.” Also gives churring calls.
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