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Post by henicorhina on Jan 5, 2007 17:09:28 GMT -8
I'll send it as a possible Slaty-backed Gull, so hopefully someone will go back out there and refind it. The CBRC is fine with submitting photos, just so long as there is a date/location, and maybe a little blurb about circumstances.
Thanks again,
Oscar
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Post by henicorhina on Jan 6, 2007 9:19:48 GMT -8
I just got a number of replies back from some people in California who all think it is a Western Gull, and taking another look at the photos I agree with them. This bird doesn't have the wingtip pattern of a Slaty-backed, and everything else fits for a third cycle Western Gull. I've seen birds like this before, but never one quite so close to a Slaty-backed.
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Post by Gord on Jan 6, 2007 10:52:24 GMT -8
I definately agree with third-winter bird. While my power went out last night (what a storm!), I thought about the dark wingtips, with no or little windows, and that the wings should still be relatively fresh from recent moult (if I have typical moult pattern correct), plus the bill and thought Id throw out the idea it could be third winter. With no apparent markings on the tail, it would work for a third- winter western gull over a third-winter slaty-back if we go third-winter bird route. Ive never seen a western like this either (mind you, southern populations are different from northern ones) with the heavy streaking which would be uncommon on either populations but I guess it isnt impossible for the streaks to be retained into the 3rd winter. What a great learning opportunity! Thanks to all involved up to this point and beyond. Good find regardless of the final outcome Dave. Judging by the activity from California birders here over the last 12 hours, Id say you created quite a stir!! It's always the out of towner who comes out and finds something neat. Ive seen that happen so many times!!
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Post by Dave on Jan 7, 2007 21:45:35 GMT -8
First, sorry for the delay. I have had no power at my home for the last 48 hours due to a severe wind storm. We now have heat, light, and internet again!
The conclusion seems to be that this is most likely a extra dark 3rd year Western Gull. Thanks a lot to the dozens of thoughts/comments/tips/emails and even pictures I recieved about identifying this gull.
Dave
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Post by Gord on Jan 11, 2007 9:11:43 GMT -8
Indeed. It was most interesting to follow this! Thanks to all the southern birders who shared their opinions. Even though we're at -20 at the moment in the wind, I still thank them.
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