Yellow-legged Gull - Larus michahellis

(last update: October 08 2013)

Coordinators:
Delfín González
Gabriel Martín
Antonio Gutierrez
Amir Ben Dov
Mars Muusse

Yellow-legged Gull michahellis 1CY, October 03 2002, Le Portel, NW France.

An individual with a very contrasting pattern on the wing-coverts. The brown centres are not bleached as can be seen commonly in birds from southern France. The outer median coverts have been shed. Note the fine thin pattern on the second generation scapulars.

A strong and powerful bird, probably a male. Head, breast and belly have been moulted to second generation under-parts. Note the pale pinkish legs, the dark outer greater coverts, the extensive dark centres of the tertials and the strong facial expression: all characteristics favouring michahellis.