nominate Lesser Black-backed Gull (L. f. fuscus)

(last update: 9-11-2009)

Larus fuscus fuscus 1cy (juvenile), August 06 2002, Tampere, Finland (61.33N 24.59E).

A juvenile fuscus by early August, present at the Tampere dump. This bird has the fringes of the rear scapulars slightly worn and a few lower upper scapulars have been shed. At least two rear lower upper scapulars are growing second generation feathers. The fringes are almost white, lacking a buffish or yellowish hue. The fresh primaries are all dark towards the tip, without obvious pale crescents as can be seen in most argentatus juveniles. Note the 5th and 6th median coverts and greater coverts #5 and outwards: the wing-coverts contrast with the outer medians and inner 4 greater coverts.