Kittiwake juv/nonbreeding - somerset UK (1 Viewer)

[payaminotom]

Hi all, hoping to get a confirmation on the ID of this bird. I'm not amazing at Gulls, so would appreciate some help! When wings were spread, a clear black 'M' was apparent across the back. The only things having me doubting are the apparently short and stout beak, being less pointed and slender than I'd be used to with adult Kittiwake, and the lack of black collar for a juvenile. Please let me know if this is within variation for this species at this age or indeed if I've made an error! Thanks!

 

[payaminotom]

 

[Stephen Dunstan]

Yes it's a second calendar year Kittiwake. Was it inland?

 

[payaminotom]

Yes it's a second calendar year Kittiwake. Was it inland?

Amazing, thanks! Yes at Ham Wall RSPB today.

 

[Stephen Dunstan]

Good stuff. There's a report of one 'on east side of Walton Heath' this evening, I guess that's your bird?

 

[payaminotom]

Good stuff. There's a report of one 'on east side of Walton Heath' this evening, I guess that's your bird?

Yes that's right, I pointed another birder to it as I was leaving, must be his report!