Many resident shore birds of the Galapagos are now sufficiently different from mainland species to have been awarded and endemic subspecies status by taxonomists. Only one has been given a full species status: the endemic lava heron.
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American Oystercatcher
This species is able to open crab shells with their strong beaks and eat the contents. They make their living in the inter-tidal zone, feeding on crustaceans and molluscs.
These birds are best seen in Genovesa, Marchena, San Cristobal, and Española Islands.
The Cattle Egret
Probably the most recent natural arrival in Galapagos as part of a worldwide expansion of this especies.
The Cattle Egret feeds on locusts, grasshoppers and other insects; also lizards and probably the young of iguanas and green turtles. These birds are best seen in Española, San Cristobal, Darwin, Wolf, Marchena and Genovesa Islands.
Greater Flamingo
An unmistakable bird, with immensely legs, a long neck and striking pink to vermilion plumage.
Their diet is quite varied, with crustaceans, molluscs, annelid worms, insects and plant material, algae, diatoms, seeds, etc.
These birds are best seen in Isabela, Punta Moreno, Santa Cruz, Floreana, Rabida Islands.
Great Blue Heron
Reaches a height of 1 meter high and a wingspan of nearly 2m. The blue heron diet is based on small fishes, crabs, lizards, small iguanas and young birds. These birds are best seen in Genovesa, Marchena, San Cristobal, and Española Islands.
Lava Heron
The Lava heron is a solitary nester in mangroves or around lagoons, and is quite territorial.
The lava heron feeds mainly on small fish, crabs lizards and insects. It is often seen stalking sally lightfoot crabs.
These birds are best seen in Española, San Cristobal, Darwin, Wolf, Marchena and Genovesa Islands.
White Checked Pintail
Its also known by the name of Galapagos Pintail. With a height of around 45 cm, it is considered a small bird.
The Galapagos Pintail feeds on vegetable matters and invertebrates on the surface of water and by dabbling, but may also dive in deeper freshwater lakes and ponds to escape predators.
These birds are best seen in Española, San Cristobal, Darwin, Wolf, Marchena and Genovesa Islands.
