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Subject:

Unusual Gull, Lake Artemesia

From:

Ryan Farrell

Reply-To:

Ryan Farrell

Date:

Sat, 3 Feb 2007 15:03:11 -0500

In a brief stop at Lake Artemesia in College Park just now, I
observed two unusual gulls amidst the flock of 50 or so
Ring-billed gulls.  They were notably smaller than the others,
had pinkish legs (that's what first drew my attention), a blackish bill and
had a black spot behind the eye.  I'm horrific with gull IDs, but the only
two I know of with these characteristics are bonaparte's and black-headed gulls.

I happened to have my camera (hoping to get a photo of yesterday's Peregrine
which was nowhere to be found) and did get some photos, though they're
probably not great.  Once I get them off the camera, I'd be happy to send
them to anyone who could help me with the ID (or if someone in the area
happens to stop by, please let me know what you think).  In looking back
through the photos (on the camera, not the computer yet), there were at
least 3 if not 4 of them actually.

Other than this, things were pretty normal, lots of canadas, several coots,
a couple p-b greebes, ruddies and 3-5 hooded mergansers (1-2 males).

Good birding and thanks to anyone who can help,

Ryan Farrell
College Park