2nd winter Western?

[tmanson]

I had a look, this afternoon, through the massive gull flock off Banford, and Prairie Central. I haven't spent mega hours sifting through immature gulls to pull out a species, but after studying one bird for about 20 minutes with only my National Geographic field guide in hand, I'm reasonably sure it was a 2nd year Western Gull. However, after getting home, and looking thorugh Sibley, and Olsen, in my mind, there is a small possibility it was a second year Slaty-backed. Maybe a more experienced gull watcher can enlighten me on a significant distinguishing characteristic. In the meantime, keep checking those gull flocks; ( if you have the time!!).
Thor

[Gord]

Either way, a good gull worth further study and pictures if possible!

Without consulting a guide, I couldnt talk about these two gulls outside of adult plumage. Good on you for tackling a gull in juvenile plumage (that isnt a glaucous gull or of the few other distinct juv gull species)