Posted by Charles Gangas on September 1, 2011 at 10:34 AM
This image taken about 6 miles off the coast of Southern Maine a day before Irene's arrival. I'm thinking this may be an immature Herring Gull, but just guessing. Thanks
Posted by Jim DeWitt on September 1, 2011 at 1:12 PM
The photo doesn't offer a lot of field marks. First year Herring Gull in first winter plumage would be a good guess, but given the grey tips to the primaries and the pale forehead, I lean towards first winter Glaucous Gull. The fact the bird is 6 miles off shore also suggests Glaucous; Herring are a somewhat more in-shore species, at least around Alaska.
But honestly, with the few field marks, it could be most any eastern shore four-year gull. Nice capture, though.
Posted by Nick Baldwin on September 1, 2011 at 1:25 PM
That is a great shot Chuck.
As we seldom get Glaucous on the Gulf side I can't really venture there but would concur that of the species I have seen it seems closer to the Herring.
That said, and with a glance at Ken Kaufman's Field Guide to Advanced Birding (see pgs. 114-) the Glaucous does seem more logical. (-:
You might also check out Peter Grant's "Gulls: A Guide to Identification."
Posted by Charles Gangas on September 2, 2011 at 2:40 AM
Thanks to you both Jim and Nick. Jim I have several additional shots of this gull but there are really no distinguishing marks that are apparent, a pretty dull character if that's an apt description. Nick I appreciate the reference suggestions, thanks.
Discussion
3 repliesBut honestly, with the few field marks, it could be most any eastern shore four-year gull. Nice capture, though.
As we seldom get Glaucous on the Gulf side I can't really venture there but would concur that of the species I have seen it seems closer to the Herring.
That said, and with a glance at Ken Kaufman's Field Guide to Advanced Birding (see pgs. 114-) the Glaucous does seem more logical. (-:
You might also check out Peter Grant's "Gulls: A Guide to Identification."