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Source-This post is based on the article “In a first in the country, laughing gull from North America spotted at Chittari estuary in Kasaragod” published in “The Hindu” on 28th January 2024.
Why in the News?
The laughing gull, a migratory bird originating from North America, has been observed for the first time in the country at the Chittari estuary in Kasaragod district of Kerala.
What is a laughing gull?
| Aspect | Details |
| About | 1. The laughing gull (Leucophaeus atricilla) is a species of bird belonging to the family Laridae. 2. The name “laughing gull” comes from its distinctive call, which sounds like laughter. |
| Habitat | These birds are most commonly found along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts of North America, as well as the Caribbean and parts of Central America. |
| Conservation Status | IUCN: Least Concern |
| Characteristics | 1. It is a medium-sized gull with a distinctive appearance characterized by its black head, black legs, long drooping bill white body, and long wings. 2. They take 2-3 years to reach adult plumage. 3. They often nest in colonies on beaches, islands, and marshes 4. They are known for their adaptability and opportunistic feeding habits. They feed on a variety of prey, including fish, insects, and scavenged food. |
Note– This discovery elevates the total count of bird species discovered in India to 1,367. The Kasaragod district alone contributing 400 species to the state’s total count of 554.
About Chittari estuary
1) The Chittari estuary refers to a coastal area where a river meets the sea, forming a brackish water environment.
2) It is located in the Kasaragod district of Kerala, India.
3) Chittari estuary encompasses a wide variety species of birds including lesser black-backed gull, slender-billed gull, brown-headed gull, great crested, lesser crested tern, Caspian tern and others.
UPSC Syllabus- Environment (Species in News)
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