Habitat:
rocky cliffs, islands, coasts

Activity period :
Mainly active at night, generally discreet during the day.

Identification and description:
The Swallow-tailed Gull, Creagrus furcatus, is a unique seabird primarily found in the Galápagos Islands. It is distinguished by its forked tail and grey and white plumage. Its black bill is tipped with red, and its eyes are surrounded by a red ring, giving it a piercing look. This gull is nocturnal, a rarity among seabirds, and feeds mainly on fish and squid caught in flight. It nests on rocky cliffs, usually laying a single egg. Its behavior is relatively tolerant towards humans, allowing for close observation.

Recommended lens:
400mm – adjust based on distance, desired framing (portrait or habitat), and approach conditions.

Photography tips:
To photograph the Swallow-tailed Gull, focus on twilight or nighttime hours, as this is when it is most active. Use a 400mm lens or longer to capture detailed images without disturbing the bird. The rocky cliffs of the Galápagos Islands provide a stunning natural backdrop, ideal for dynamic compositions. Be patient and maintain a 10m safety distance to avoid disrupting their natural behavior.