Thayer's Gull (thayeri)

(last update: January 22, 2013)

Californian Gull 2nd cycle (2CY), November 24 2008, Nimbus Fish Hatchery, Sacramento County, CA. Picture: Dave Johnson.

Visit: Dave's Flickr photostream.

Some similarity to Thayer's Gull, but CALIFORNIA GULL typically has well-defined gray saddle, and gray of upperparts averages darker (Kodak 5-7.5), but some closely resemble Thayer’s in plumage: note California’s longer and blacker wing projection, more parallel-edged bill, and often a blue-green hue to the tibia. In flight, note restricted pale inner primary panel (usually on inner 3-4 primaries) and solidly dark outer primaries of California.