Dave Appleton
Well-known member
This morning an "adult Iceland Gull" was reported at Titchwell (Norfolk, UK). I was already on site so arrived fairly quickly - the bird was in fact an immature, second summer (third calendar-year) I think, and the identification as Iceland Gull was quickly challenged.
Some of those present felt that structurally it was good for Iceland Gull, although to my eyes the bill seemed rather long and Herring Gull-like. It was similar in size to the smallest Herring Gulls present but gave the impression of being longer-winged. Plumage seemed incompatible with Iceland Gull, as it showed darker than expected outer primaries and coverts and a dark tail band. Most observers seemed to think it was a leucistic Herring Gull.
I left the site favouring Herring Gull too, but with a niggling doubt over whether or not Kumlien's Gull could be eliminated. During the course of this evening I've not been able to clear that doubt.
Photos are on my website here:
http://www.gobirding.eu/Photos/TitchwellGull.php
Features not visible in the photos include a pale yellowy iris, only apparent at close range, and heavily barred undertail-coverts.
Note the similarity between this bird and the bird reported during the winter at Blackborough End tip (also Norfolk):
http://www.worldbirders.com/index.asp?PageId=156&PageName=possible-Kumlien's-Gull
Opinions would be welcome on this bird, especially from anyone familiar with second summer Kumlien's Gulls at this time of year.
Thanks,
Dave Appleton
Some of those present felt that structurally it was good for Iceland Gull, although to my eyes the bill seemed rather long and Herring Gull-like. It was similar in size to the smallest Herring Gulls present but gave the impression of being longer-winged. Plumage seemed incompatible with Iceland Gull, as it showed darker than expected outer primaries and coverts and a dark tail band. Most observers seemed to think it was a leucistic Herring Gull.
I left the site favouring Herring Gull too, but with a niggling doubt over whether or not Kumlien's Gull could be eliminated. During the course of this evening I've not been able to clear that doubt.
Photos are on my website here:
http://www.gobirding.eu/Photos/TitchwellGull.php
Features not visible in the photos include a pale yellowy iris, only apparent at close range, and heavily barred undertail-coverts.
Note the similarity between this bird and the bird reported during the winter at Blackborough End tip (also Norfolk):
http://www.worldbirders.com/index.asp?PageId=156&PageName=possible-Kumlien's-Gull
Opinions would be welcome on this bird, especially from anyone familiar with second summer Kumlien's Gulls at this time of year.
Thanks,
Dave Appleton
