Canada (Ontario)
Nov 21 2013
female, adult
Russell - Sometimes even the experts need to check with the experts. Reported originally as a Lesser Black-backed Gull, this bird was referred to a more experienced birder who checked with other experts. There was talk of it possibly being a Slaty-backed Gull, an Asian species, but after lengthy review it was determined to be probably a small female Great Black-backed Gull with a very pale back. The colour is perfect for Slaty-backed but there are leg issues and it may have been a bit big for Lesser and the back too pale even for that bird. Gull identification can be a real challenge.
Nov 22 2013