Gull, Swindon UK (1 Viewer)

[Swindon Addick]

I really struggle with gulls, even the common ones. Particularly when they're not fully mature and don't look to be the colour I was expecting. Is this just a slightly dark herring gull? And if so, how old is it? It was in my local park a couple of days ago. The lake isn't big and usually only gets black-headed plus an occasional visiting lesser black-backed.

 

[Julie50]

Hi

I‘m going second winter lesser black backed gull. But I am just learning with the help of my Olsen. So am just as likely to be wrong!

One of the gull experts will give you a better answer!

 

[Alexander Stöhr]

I am also no expert, so I agree with you in both points, Julie50:

• its a second winter (=3 cy, if taken in January 2021) Lesser-black-backed Gull. I think an older = third winter (4 cy) wouldnt show such a broad, potentially unbroken tailband, and more yellow in the bill (or nearly completly yellow).
• I also hope for the experts to coment, so I can learn!

 

[Swindon Addick]

Thanks, both. I'll get the hang of gulls one day...