Some Confusing Gulls
This bird was seen in Stewart Park, Ithaca, NY - 3 March, 2007.
Is it just a 1st winter Herring Gull, or could it be a Lesser Black-backed Gull?
I'm thinking Herring Gull, but the dark/contrasting centers to the scapulars made me wonder...
![](lbbg_or_herg1_3-4-07.jpg)
![](lbbg_or_herg2_3-4-07.jpg)
These first shots are of an odd looking 1st (2nd?) winter Herring-type gull seen on January 14, 2007
at the Pueblo Reservoir. Note its largish size, very light head, and heavy dark bill.
![](herg_and_herg-type_2.jpg)
![](herg_and_herg-type_3.jpg)
Comparison with similarly aged Herring Gull...
![](herg_and_herg-type_1.jpg)
Might this bird be a 1st winter Lesser Black-backed Gull???
![](lbbg_maybe.jpg)
![](lbbg_maybe1.jpg)
All Photos (C) 2006 Paul Hurtado
(Just let me know if you use them!)