Lesser Black-backed Gull (graellsii & intermedius)

(last update: May 17 2015)

LBBG 2cy IE September 18 2003, Naaktstrand - Maasvlakte, the Netherlands.

A local 2cy LBBG, ringed last year at Maasvlakte, near Rotterdam. Primary moult well in line with other local Dutch 2cy LBBG: P1-P8 fully grown and P9 already longer than P7. Rectrices all second generation. The scapulars are old and fresh second generation-like feathers, showing an anchor pattern. The fresh upper scapulars and upper lower scapulars are most probably third generation.

This bird followed the common moult strategy in the wing-coverts, with the first replaced feathers already loosing the warm tones, turning pale-based. Note e.g. the inner greater coverts and inner median coverts. Now the lesser coverts in the carpal edge have been replaced as well, this individual has started the partial autumn moult. In the right wing, the tertials have been replaced to second generation feathers in the complete moult. Now, in autumn, a second wave will be initiated in the partial moult: the two upper tertials have been shed again. In the wing-coverts, the two innermost greater coverts have been shed. One central median covert is fresh and most probably third generation. This could be a replaced feather from the post-juvenile moult.