Heermann's Gull (Larus heermanni), Kennedy Park, Pima County

This Heermann's Gull was discovered by John Higgins on 4 May 2013 and photographed by Andrew Core on 04 May 2013

Heermann's Gull is a casual visitor to Arizona from the Gulf of California and occurs nearly year round, but most records from late fall. Although there are more than 40 records of Heermann's Gull in Arizona, they are notorious for being one-day wonders.

This unique and beautiful gull is distinctive in all ages. This bird is either a 3rd summer or an adult that has not fully molted; note the narrow dark tip to the bill that is limited to beyond the gonys.

04 May 2013, photo by Andrew Core

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