Here at our mountain retreat, nestled amidst the lush greenery of Costa Rica’s highlands, we pride ourselves on the symphony of birdsong that fills the air. But while our resident toucans and trogons steal the show, a surprise visitor occasionally graces our skies with a touch of the coast – the Franklin’s Gull.

Yes, you read that right! While Franklin’s Gulls are primarily a migratory species, spending their summers breeding in North America and their winters along the coasts of South America, a small number decide to take a detour on their journey, gracing Costa Rica with their presence for a short while.

These delicate gulls, slightly smaller than their Laughing Gull cousins, are a sight to behold. During breeding season, adults sport a sleek black hood contrasting with their white bodies and dark grey wings. But here in Costa Rica, you’re more likely to see them in their non-breeding attire – a softer look with the black hood mostly faded, revealing a pinkish blush on their underparts (hence their nickname, the “rosy dove”).

While spotting a Franklin’s Gull in the mountains might seem like an oddity, there’s a reason for their occasional visits. Costa Rica boasts extensive coastlines on both the Pacific and Atlantic sides. Sometimes, during migration, Franklin’s Gulls might veer off course and explore the inland areas, especially near bodies of water like lakes or reservoirs.

So, if you’re here at our retreat and catch a glimpse of a white bird with a graceful flight, keep your eyes peeled! It might just be a Franklin’s Gull, a fleeting ambassador from the distant coasts, adding a touch of unexpected beauty to your Costa Rican birding experience.

Here are some additional facts about Franklin’s Gulls to impress your fellow birdwatchers:

• These birds are insectivores and opportunistic feeders, snatching insects in mid-air or scooping up small fish from the water’s surface.
• They’re known for their agile flight, performing acrobatic maneuvers to catch their prey.
• Franklin’s Gulls are social birds, often seen in flocks, especially during migration.

While their visits might be brief, Franklin’s Gulls add a delightful surprise to the avian tapestry of our mountain retreat. So, keep your binoculars handy, and you might just be lucky enough to witness a flash of pink against the backdrop of our verdant mountains.

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

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