Mew Gull (Larus canus), Lake Pleasant, Yavapai County

This Mew Gull was discovered and photographed by Tommy DeBardeleben on the north side of Lake Pleasant, which is in Yavapai County on 31 October 2013.

Mew Gulls have seemed to be annual in recent years on the Lower Colorado River Valley, but are very rare/casual elsewhere in the state of Arizona. This may be the first record for Yavapai County.

Small gull with delicate bill. First cycle bird. Brownish overall, dusky brown underwings, and the heavily barred undertail coverts are somewhat visible. Dark tail band with a brown rump. These features rule out younger Ring-billed Gull.

31 October 2013, photo by Tommy DeBardeleben