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

(last update: 9-11-2009)

Larus fuscus fuscus 3cy, August 10 2002, Tampere, Finland (61.33N 24.59E).

The scapulars and wing-covert moult is much in line with some 2cy birds, like C6XV, 3353 and 3323. Especially the combination of a large patch of pale brown greater coverts with very abraded fringes. In most 3cy birds there are only a few such feathers in an otherwise all dark wing. The inner greaters, central medians, lesser coverts and three upper tertials have been replaced for fresh feathers. The scapulars are predominantly fresh and the last older brown scapulars can be found in the rear lowest row of lower scapulars.

P1 is a freshly moulted primary, P2-P3 are missing and P4-P10 are bleached brown (probably second generation) primaries, replaced in the moult cycles last winter. Remarkably, those outer primaries are relatively well conserved, considering the time they were moulted. The rectrices are all worn (probably second generation) tail-feathers.

Note the extensive yellow bill, the hint of yellow in the legs, the colour of the iris and orbital ring and the small red spot on the gonydeal angle.