Lesser Black-backed Gull (graellsii & intermedius)

(last update: May 17 2015)

LBBG 3cy, May 12 2001, Missouriweg - Maasvlakte, the Netherlands. 

Average 3cy LBBG in May: The bare parts are well in line with 3cy LBBG. Head and under parts are moulted to summer plumage. The scapulars and mantle form a grey (fourth generation) saddle. In the coverts, many medians are shed and active moult will result in a grey median covert bar soon. When the normal moult pattern is followed, some inner greater and some lesser coverts will be replaced as well. The tail shows many brown marks. Note the long-necked and long-legged appearance in this 3cy.
Note that during previous autumn some coverts (e.g. the inner three greater coverts) were renewed to third generation and have become bleached and abraded during winter and spring.