Lesser Black-backed Gull (Larus fuscus), Glendale Recharge Ponds, Maricopa County

This Lesser Black-backed Gull was found and photographed by Jeff Ritz on 08 December 2016

Currently nine accepted records for the state with another one pending. This species is increasing with the first state record occuring in 2006, and nearly annual records in the past five years.

Basic-plumaged adult, whereas most Arizona records are of first- or second-cycle birds. Dark gray mantle, pale iris, yellow legs, large bill, dark streaking on head. Note larger size and darker mantle compared to nearby California Gulls. Only other dark mantled gull with yellow feet is Yellow-footed Gull which would have pure black wings, a more bulbous-tipped bill and a clean white head. It would also be larger and not so long winged.

08 December 2016, photo by Jeff Ritz

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