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

(last update: 19-2-2010)

Larus fuscus fuscus C5WE & C2NM April 19 2009, Koukko dump - Nokia, Finland (61.33N 24.59E). Pictures Hannu Koskinen.

These two fuscus are ringed and paired. C5WE is a 9cy male, ringed as pullus on July 05 2001 at Jämsä, C Finland. C2NM is a 10cy female, ringed as pullus on July 07 2000 at Jämsä, C Finland. Present as couple at the dump. When two partners stand next to each other, the size and jizz difference is striking in most couples. The largest bird is supposed to be the male, with a flatter head profile and often a more aggressive look than the round-headed female. In such situation 'code M1/F1' is used (actually only used inside of the colony). Code M2/F2 is used during so-called 'courtship feeding': the female tries to stimulate the male to vomit and offer food to her. Code M3/F3 is only used for pairs in copulation.