29 August, 2009

Lesser Black-backed Gull

Scientific Name: Larus fuscus

Population Estimate: 1M, Least Concern status


Range / Habitat: Breeds on sea coasts in northern Europe and northwest Russia. Winters on coastal and inland waters of southern Europe, north and east Africa, and the Middle East.

Field Notes: Large white gull with grey to black mantle. Bill yellow with red spot at tip. Legs yellow.  In non-breeding season head and neck are streaked. Great Black-backed Gull larger with pale legs. Yellow-legged Gull only overlaps in winter, has lighter mantle, and retains unstreaked head. 

Personal Notes: Photographed our last day in Iceland while driving around the Reykjanes Peninsula, waiting for our flight.

No comments:

Post a Comment