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Post by kastern on Jan 16, 2007 16:20:19 GMT -8
I need some opinions as to what type these Gulls are. I took the photo in mid June at Great Slave Lake in the North West Territories. At the time I thought they were Ring-billed Gull. I then changed my mind and thought maybe Herring Gull. I am now wondering if they are California Gull (wrong leg color)or Thanks in advance for any help you can give me. Kathy
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Post by Gord on Jan 16, 2007 20:52:17 GMT -8
Ill take a crack at it! ;D
I think you're right on the herring gull idea. While not always 100% accurate on 100% of herring gulls, pink legs and yellow eye is a very good clue. The bill is nice and long too and general shape is good for a herring gull. A California, while the bill pattern is similar, would be smaller, slightly darker back and usually with a dark eye and yellow legs. Ring-billed gulls are smaller still (crow sized) but with yellow eyes and the yellow legs.
The guy in the foreground does not look like an adult to me. Scattered smudges in its back, wingtips without 'windows' and dark in the tail makes me think 3rd winter moulting to adult/3rd summer? Interesting how the head is spotless, but I guess the moult could go in stages and the head is complete?
The one in behind I suspect is also not an adult but further along in moult?
Perhaps this is typical apperance for what I suspect is a 3 year old bird? Summer gulls are not something Ive had much chance to look at as not many seem to be around. Interested as always in other's thoughts.
Nice pictures! It must have been a beautiful trip up there! Hope you have more pictures to share! ;D
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