Lesser Black-backed Gull (graellsii & intermedius)

(last update: May 17 2015)

Lesser Black-backed Gull sub-adult, July 18 2013, Katwijk, the Netherlands.

Unringed, hence no provenance about origin, but in all respects nice match to local "Dutch intergrade" Lesser Black-backed Gull breeding at Katwijk.

Bird in complete moult: P2/P4 (P3 growing). Black centres on greater primary coverts possible for true adults as well, see known age birds HERE. However, in this individual the greater primary coverts have diffuse dark centres and pale tips, typically for immature birds (see 4CY KUAH). This sub-adult has adult-like P5 pattern (sharp blackish band and white tip) therefore it not likely to be in 3CY; added to this the completely white tail and well demarcated white mirror on P10.