This highly distinctive (and very large) first-winter gull arrived here at least a month ago pretty much 'as is'.
I've oscillated between Mongolian and Taimyr Gull for it, but did settle on the former based on replaced (so, early) whitish scapulars (which also show some signs of wear) contrasting with much older and slightly worn/faded brownish wing (in which nothing replaced).
However, I'm now swinging back towards Taimyr Gull for it based on unpatterned greater coverts (throughout) and weak window on the inner primaries (though there are pale spots near the tips).
As there are a few other things wrong with it for Taimyr Gull, this is one that is not fitting conveniently into category. Any help with it or comments would be much appreciated!
Steve
I've oscillated between Mongolian and Taimyr Gull for it, but did settle on the former based on replaced (so, early) whitish scapulars (which also show some signs of wear) contrasting with much older and slightly worn/faded brownish wing (in which nothing replaced).
However, I'm now swinging back towards Taimyr Gull for it based on unpatterned greater coverts (throughout) and weak window on the inner primaries (though there are pale spots near the tips).
As there are a few other things wrong with it for Taimyr Gull, this is one that is not fitting conveniently into category. Any help with it or comments would be much appreciated!
Steve