Lesser Black-backed Gull (graellsii & intermedius)

(last update: 22-2-2011)

LBBG 3cyAugust 29 2003, IJmuiden, the Netherlands.

Probably 3cy LBBG intermedius, arrested moult at P8. In all respects an advanced bird in upper-parts and primaries, showing a moult pattern reminiscent of nominate fuscus. After the ordinary moult to second generation primaries in the complete moult last summer, the inner primaries have been replaced again at the wintering grounds. This moult wave finished at P8, leaving P9-P10 second generation. Today, about half a year later, the tips of P5-P8 are slightly worn already. Those outer two primaries are about one year old now, bleached and slightly abraded at the tips. P10 has no mirror. The primaries moulted at the wintering grounds show small white tips, as can be seen commonly in third generation primaries. This summer, in the complete moult, this individual started primary moult again at P1. P1-P2 are fully grown now, P3 is growing and P4 is missing by late August.

All rectrices are white and slightly worn. Note that in the image P8 is folded beneath P10, which explains the white tip in the far wing.