Lesser Black-backed Gull (graellsii & intermedius)

(last update: May 17 2015)

LBBG 2cy, August 15 2003, Westkapelle, the Netherlands.

A 2cy LBBG, with an average moult score: P7 is fully grown and P10 is still juvenile. A barred individual in the wing-coverts but rather grey in the scapulars. In the wing-coverts, the last phase involves the central greater coverts and lesser coverts in the carpal edge. In the ordinary moult sequence, LBBG finish with about greater coverts #7-8 and the outermost lesser coverts in the upper row. As can be seen in the image, those central greater coverts have been replaced for second generation and are fully grown now. After this complete moult, a partial autumn moult started. The upper tertial is fresh again and the second tertial is missing. The innermost greater covert is missing and #2-3 are very fresh, probably third generation. The innermost median covert is old and worn, still from the post-juvenile moult. The next one is fresh, like the inner greater coverts, and also third generation. A few other inner medians are missing. The inner half of the visible lower lesser covert is old as well, probably also from the post-juvenile moult.