Dark Kumlien's Gull? (1 Viewer)

[Jamie Hooper]

Hi there,
Is this a dark Kumlien's Gull or something else? Generally the plumage seemed to fit KG but the bird was big, chunky and had a rather heavy bill - not the normal impression you get with Kumlien's or Iceland Gull. This was in Guernsey, Channel Islands today. Thanks

 

[Nutcracker]

Maybe a 'Viking Gull' (hybrid Glaucous x Herring)?

 

[aeshna5]

Maybe a 'Viking Gull' (hybrid Glaucous x Herring)?

That's my feeling too. Certainly not Kumlien's.

 

[Jamie Hooper]

I think Viking Gull - as a rule (or as much as gulls respect rules) - has a Glaucous-type bill ie pale with a black tip. My friend at the North Thames Gull Group has suggested Iceland x Herring.

 

[Dante Shepherd]

Iceland x Herring hybrids are not known to exist hence this bird is either a Viking or a pale argentatus Herring.

 

[Nutcracker]

I think Viking Gull - as a rule (or as much as gulls respect rules) - has a Glaucous-type bill ie pale with a black tip.

That's why I was hesitant, just 'Maybe'. But as you say, gulls don't respect rules - I don't see why some Viking Gulls shouldn't start out life with an all-black bill like the Herring parent, particularly perhaps if it is a backcross Viking x Herring (i.e., just 25% Glaucous).