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

(last update: 23-1-2011)

Larus fuscus fuscus 2cy, April 30 2010, Eilat. Picture Amir Ben Dov.

2cy nominate fuscus by late April. In the field IDed as fuscus, but heuglini difficult to exclude on on plumage (note also contrast between inner and outer-webs and apical spots on outer-webs of inner primaries P2-P3). Illustrative for variation in moult. Moult in the rectrices and secondaries finished (except S5), but all primaries still old. Pale grey wash over 2nd gen feathers and limited primary moult may indicate heuglini.