Order: Charadriiformes
Family: Laridae
Franklin’s Gull is a medium-sized gull recognized by its dark hood during the breeding season, white eye crescents, and reddish bill and legs. Outside of breeding, its head is mottled gray. Highly social, it often forms large, noisy flocks, especially during migration. This species breeds in inland marshes of North America and migrates thousands of kilometers to spend the austral summer along the coasts and wetlands of South America, including Patagonia. Its adaptability allows it to thrive in both freshwater and coastal habitats. Franklin’s Gull is agile in flight and often seen dipping and swooping over water or fields in search of food. Its presence in Patagonia is seasonal, making it a notable visitor during the southern summer.
Habitat
Coastal lagoons, estuaries, wetlands, and occasionally inland lakes and fields during migration and winter.
Foraging
Feeds on insects, small fish, and invertebrates, often foraging while flying or picking food from the water’s surface or ground.