Flying North (1 Viewer)

[chefib]

Yesterday our family was at Chester Zoo and we spotted 5 or 6 large groups of birds (up to 100 or even more) that looked like a type of seagull flying north in v-shape formations. Can any one shed light on what species this may be and the purpose of their flight north?
We’re used to see geese flying south in formation at this time of year but I’ve not seen this type of bird doing the same in a northerly direction.
Thanks for thoughts.

 

[PYRTLE]

They were probably a type of gull, heading out to their daytime feeding or preening site, perhaps their night time roost if it was late afternoon. Possibly also heading out to the Mersey to bathe, dependant on tides. The direction is probably not imperative at this time of year, most species being on their wintering ground by now, unless there is a prolonged harsh cold northerly snap. Impossible to pinpoint the species without a photo or detailed description.

 

[JWN Andrewes]

This time of year there are flocks of Pink-feet that go over that area morning & afternoon between feeding and roosting sites. They can be going in any direction.

 

[KC Foggin]

Hi chefib and a warm welcome to you from all of us at BirdForum! Enjoy

 

[chefib]

They were probably a type of gull, heading out to their daytime feeding or preening site, perhaps their night time roost if it was late afternoon. Possibly also heading out to the Mersey to bathe, dependant on tides. The direction is probably not imperative at this time of year, most species being on their wintering ground by now, unless there is a prolonged harsh cold northerly snap. Impossible to pinpoint the species without a photo or detailed description.

Many thanks for sharing your insight

 

[chefib]

This time of year there are flocks of Pink-feet that go over that area morning & afternoon between feeding and roosting sites. They can be going in any direction.

Thanks for sharing your thoughts