Lesser Black-backed Gull (graellsii & intermedius)

(last update: May 17 2015)

(2 images) LBBG 2cy A12E August 14 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-P9 fully grown and P6 already fully grown. 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. A12 has not started the partial autumn moult yet, all tertials and wing-coverts are fully grown. The bill is pink-based and the iris is pale brown.