Lesser Black-backed Gull (graellsii & intermedius)

(last update: 22-2-2011)

LBBG 3cy October 13 2001, Westkapelle, the Netherlands.

A nice example of a 3cy LBBG:

1. P6-p8 are full-grown and p8 is lacking a white tip (already reduced at p7);
2. The upper tertials have  a grey centre and  a white tip (but at the very base there are black markings in these centres). Tertials #5 and #6 still have spaghetti pattern, typical for 3cy birds;
3. Most of the central and outer greater coverts, the outer lesser coverts (the carpal edge) and a few median coverts as well have black markings in the centres or show faint bars;
4. The tail feathers have extensive black markings;
5. The bill has black markings on both the upper and lower mandibles (but this may be seen in older birds as well);
6. Streaking on the head and neck create a executioner's hood.