Gulls Jan 27

[Gord]

On my way to work, there were about 1500 gulls in the grass on Sumas Central not far from Evans. You could see the flock from Evans. A quick look showed nothing crazy. A ring-billed gull was there. I dont often see them in the winter. Also 3 mew gulls, but been seeing just a few here and there all winter.

This evening (it woudl be 'afternoon' if it wasnt winter) there were very few gulls left. Most, about 50, were in the rotting brussel sprout field (ugh!) on Evans close to Wells Rd and that's where I saw the western gull. More good looks as it preened and stretched its wings, but, as all western gulls have done to date, it did not cooperate and took off as I was setting up for a picture.

I could almost like this seagull business provided I can find a bird that isnt a hybrid and/or juvenile...that's tough as about 80% are just that!

[tmanson]

Gord: Now what we need to find is an Iceland Gull. That would be a nice topper to the rest of the clan that are using the Chilliwack fields this winter. One was found yesterday near Boundary Bay, and there is one in Kent Washington now. It shouldn't be all that impossible with all the coastal species that are around. It's just trying to pick one out from all the other juveniles, unless there is a nice adult around. Anything is possible. Let's keep looking. Thor

Hope, B.C.

[Gord]

That would be a great ending to an already unreal winter of gulls in our area!

There are lots of flocks out there that havnt been looked at. The fact the slaty-backed seems to be in the same area every day means that these other flocks in different parts of town could have a different bunch of birds.

[tmanson]

Gord et al. Don't know if any Fraser Valley birders monitor Tweeters, the Washinton State list serve. There was an interesting debate today on a bird initially identified as an Iceland Gull down there, only to be refuted by others claiming it to be a Glaucous Gull. Pictures were supplied. Gull identification can be very tough to all, but the most experienced birders. I hope that won't discourage any of us from going out on a limb if we see what at least looks like an Iceland Gull. We can always call in the experts if we need additional help; ( especially if we have a picture- I'm working on that part of my birding repertoire. )

Thor
Hope, B.C.