Larus belcheri
Belcher's Gull (Larus belcheri) is a distinctive, medium-sized gull native to the Pacific coast of South America, known for its striking appearance and opportunistic feeding habits. Adults measure 46-51 cm (18-20 in) in length with a wingspan of 120-130 cm (47-51 in) and weigh between 500-600 g (1.1-1.3 lbs). Its most prominent field mark is the stout, red bill featuring a black subterminal band and a bright yellow tip. Breeding adults display a dark slate-grey mantle and back, pristine white...
This species primarily inhabits coastal areas, including rocky shores, sandy beaches, estuaries, harbors, and fishing ports, typically at sea-level elevations.
Belcher's Gulls are omnivorous and opportunistic, consuming fish, marine invertebrates (crabs, mollusks), offal from fishing vessels, refuse, and occasionally eggs and chicks of other seabirds, primarily foraging by scavenging and surface gleaning.
Belcher's Gulls are predominantly diurnal, engaging in extensive foraging activities along the coast and roosting communally in large aggregations, often near human settlements and fishing operations. They employ highly opportunistic foraging strategies, scavenging discards from fishing boats, gl...
Belcher's Gull is primarily distributed along the Pacific coast of South America. Its main breeding range extends from central Peru south to northern Chile, with significant colonies found on offshore islands such as the Chincha and Ballestas Islands in Peru. During the non-breeding season, indiv...
Least Concern
- Belcher's Gull is named after Sir Edward Belcher, a British naval officer and explorer who mapped much of the west coast of South America. - Its striking red bill with a black subterminal band and yellow tip is a unique and definitive field mark, distinguishing it from most other gull species. ...