Hi Everyone,

Good morning! I was involved with two of the three California Gull reports recently, one at Salisbury Landfill on 10/24 and one at the OC Inlet on 11/13. Both of these birds appeared to be clear-cut plumage-wise to many of us for Cal. Gulls entering second-winter plumage. In an effort to be thorough, I forwarded the later images for discussion and was shocked to learn that several experts were uncomfortable with the structure of both birds. Reviewing the photos, I think I can see their points now and I am certainly filled with doubt. That said, it is more in deference to their expertise than to feeling like the details are obvious! I think both birds match 2W California Gull plumage very well, especially in key features like the lack of a pale panel in the primaries, and these are at least highly unusual Herring Gull plumages.

Structurally, it's been said the bill appears too large and that the wings appear too broad and not pointed enough. The birds might be too dark overall in ground color, with a head doesn't appear light enough with relation to its overall color. There are other subtle details that have been addressed as well. In any case, I wanted to publicly UN-confirm these reports. Should my hopes be realized and we miraculously prove these are California Gulls, I'll post again following additional review. Otherwise, this is an interesting study at how structure must always be a big part of a rare bird review. I had no idea that Herring Gulls can come so close to this California Gull plumage - especially with regard to the lack of pale panel!

Here are Exhibits A through E. :)

Salisbury bird (fifth photo down)
http://www.billhubick.com/photos/updates/20091030.php

OC bird
http://www.billhubick.com/image2/california_gull_oc_inlet_md_20091113_01.jpg
http://www.billhubick.com/image2/california_gull_oc_inlet_md_20091113_02.jpg
http://www.billhubick.com/image2/california_gull_oc_inlet_md_20091113_03.jpg
http://www.billhubick.com/image2/california_gull_oc_inlet_md_20091113_04.jpg

It's discouraging, but after a couple days to shake it off, I think I can chalk it up as a learning opportunity and not quit birding. ;) Any discussion is very welcome, but please send it to me off-list. 

Thanks, and have a great weekend!

b


Bill Hubick
Pasadena, Maryland

http://www.billhubick.com