Here at our mountain retreat, nestled amidst the emerald embrace of Costa Rica’s highlands, we’re surrounded by a dazzling symphony of birds. From the iridescent flash of a quetzal to the melodic trill of a toucan, our avian neighbors are a constant source of wonder. But today, we turn our gaze skyward, for a less flamboyant visitor gracing our Pacific shores – the Gray Gull.

The Gray Gull, also known as the Garuma Gull (Leucophaeus modestus), might seem an unlikely resident of our lush, tropical haven. After all, this medium-sized gull is a native of South America, with its breeding grounds nestled in the heart of the Atacama Desert, one of the driest places on Earth!

However, during their non-breeding season, Gray Gulls embark on coastal journeys, gracing the Pacific shores of countries like Costa Rica, Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru. While not as common as some of their gull cousins, a keen birder might just spot a Gray Gull during their Costa Rican adventure.

A Master of Adaptation:

The Gray Gull’s journey from the arid Atacama to the verdant shores of Costa Rica showcases its remarkable adaptability. Their plumage, a beautiful blend of light and dark grays with a white underbelly, provides excellent camouflage against both the desert sands and the ocean waves.

Life on the Move:

Unlike many gulls that congregate in large colonies, the Gray Gull is a more solitary creature. During their time on the Costa Rican coast, they can be found frequenting sandy beaches, mudflats, and even venturing into harbors and fishing areas. Their diet reflects their opportunistic nature. They probe the soft sediments for worms and crustaceans, snatch fish scraps, and readily scavenge for carrion or follow fishing boats in hopes of an easy meal.

A Glimpse of the Unexpected:

Spotting a Gray Gull in Costa Rica is a delightful surprise for any bird enthusiast. It’s a reminder that even in a place known for its vibrant rainforest ecosystems, the wonders extend far beyond the jungle canopy. The next time you find yourself on the Pacific coast, keep your eyes peeled for this adaptable avian traveler.

Tips for Spotting a Gray Gull:

• Location: Look for Gray Gulls along the Pacific coast of Costa Rica, particularly near beaches, mudflats, harbors, and fishing areas.
• Time of Day: Early mornings and late afternoons tend to be the most active feeding times for gulls.
• Identification: Look for a medium-sized gull with a predominantly gray body, lighter on the head and neck, and a white underbelly. Their dark bill and legs are also distinguishing features.

While a Gray Gull sighting might not be on the top of every Costa Rican birding list, it’s a testament to the incredible diversity of avian life found within this remarkable country. So, keep your binoculars handy, and you never know what feathered wonder you might encounter next!

For more information, please view our comprehensive guide about the birds of Costa Rica

This post is also available in: Français (French) Español (Spanish)