Sabine's Gull (Xema sabini), Benson Sewage Treatment Plant, Cochise County

This immature Sabine's Gull was discovered by Tony and Julie Battiste on 10 September 2008.  It was photographed by David Beaudette on 12 September 2008.  Fall 2008 has so far been a good season for this species in Arizona. 

Sabine's gull is a casual spring and rare and irregular fall migrant through the state.  Most records are of immatures.  In flight, Sabine's gulls of all ages have a striking and diagnostic wing pattern which can be seen in the photo below.

12 September 2008, photo by David Beaudette

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