Thanks, Norm, for your informative answer about both the Common/Mew Gull and gull-watching at Conowingo Dam. Thanks also to Rick Blom and Phil Davis (and others) who have added to Norm's explanation of the aforementioned bird. Not only am I learning a lot about the gull but also about European vs. American bird nomenclature. Also a lot about Maryland birders. I hope I'm correct in detecting a certain amount of humor amidst the flurry of responses. Phyllis Grimm