Little gull native to the Eurasian region was spotted for the 1st time in NCR

In December 2024, The Little Gull—a small bird native to the Eurasian region—was spotted for the first time in the National Capital Region (NCR), marking an exciting moment for birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts.

About Little Gull (Hydrocoloeus minutus):

1. Family: Laridae (gull family)
2. Size: It is the smallest species of gull in the world.
3. Breeding Range: The Little Gull breeds in northern Europe and across the Palearctic region.
4. Migration: It is a migratory bird, wintering in western Europe, the Mediterranean, and in small numbers in the northeast United States.

Habitat:

Little Gulls are found in a variety of wetland habitats, including:

1. Seacoasts, bays, and estuaries
2. Rivers, lakes, and ponds
3. Marshes and flooded fields

Physical Features:

1. Size: Length: 25–30 cm, Wingspan: 61–78 cm, Mass: 68–162 g
2. Plumage:
   1. Breeding Plumage: Pale grey with a black hood, dark underwings, and often a pinkish flush on the breast.
   2. Winter Plumage: The head turns white with a darker cap and eye-spot.
3. Bill: Thin and black.
4. Legs: Dark red.
5. Flight Style: Flight is somewhat tern-like, with rounded wings.
6. Young Birds: Have black markings on the head and upper parts, with a distinctive "W" pattern across the wings. They take around three years to reach maturity.
7. Conservation Status: IUCN Red List: The Little Gull is classified as Least Concern, indicating that it is not currently facing significant threats to its population.

What is an estuary?

1. An estuary is a coastal area where freshwater from rivers or streams meets the saltwater of the ocean.
2. This mixing of freshwater and saltwater creates brackish water, which is somewhat salty but less so than the ocean.
3. Estuaries are vital ecosystems for many species, including migratory birds like the Little Gull.

Conclusion:

The sighting of the Little Gull in the National Capital Region (NCR) is a significant event, especially considering the bird's migratory habits and global range. This marks a rare and exciting moment for birdwatchers in the region and highlights the importance of conserving habitats such as estuaries and wetlands where such species thrive.