Photo 6: First winter (1cy) LBBG, November 20 2000, Westkapelle, the  Netherlands. 

The right wing of this individual is damaged. Additionally, some oil substances are present on the scapulars and wing coverts. Due to this injuries, the bird may have suspended the moult to first winter, since only a small part of the scapulars and mantle has been renewed. Structurally a very small individual, long-winged, slender-billed and white-headed. Presumably a bird of northern origin. This was this year's last 1cy bird present at Westkapelle on December 22 2000.

Photo 14 (below): First winter LBBG, December 22 2000 Westkapelle, the Netherlands. (same bird now one month older). 

First winter LBBGs are rare in the Netherlands from December to March. Most first winters migrate south to France, Portugal and Morocco. Here, the general appearance (jizz) might indicate the intermedius type: long pointed wings, slender long bill, neat pale head and delicate general impression. Although already mid December, the bird did not moult any of the mantle feathers or scapulars, a very uncommon strategy for any healthy LBBG. As can be seen, the right wing is damaged and some oily substance is visible at the lower row of scapulars. Probably the damage at the wing weakened the bird and this damage may have resulted in suspending upper-parts moult. Also, this may be the reason for wintering far north of the common wintering grounds of LBBG in first winter. So in some respects an odd bird.