Subject: Are these 2 gulls Mew Gulls? [Print This Page] Author: cywong Time: 21/03/2010 19:03 Subject: Are these 2 gulls Mew Gulls?
Mai Po, 20/03/2010
Are these 2 gulls Mew Gulls?
Gull #1
Gull #2
[ Last edited by cywong at 21/03/2010 19:08 ] Author: cgeoff Time: 21/03/2010 20:47
Yes, both are Mew Gull Larus canus.
The first bird is interesting, as it appears rather short-billed and very clean on the head and body. The underwing coverts are also rather white and little marked. It is possible that this is L.c. heinei, although separation of this taxon from 'Kamchatka Gull' at this end of the winter is probably very tricky, as many of the latter can be very faded at this time.
The second bird is 'Kamchatka Gull' L.c. kamschatschensis, as it still has mottling on the head and underparts, well-marked underwings, a relatively long bill and an obvious brownish tinge to the scapulars.
Nice photos.
GeoffC Author: cywong Time: 21/03/2010 20:51
Geoff,
Thank you very much for your expert opinion.
cywong
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