July 24, 2005
The “Tara” Experience
Unlike most of my previous “Tara experiences”, this one did not involve a cute girl …
For Finnish gull enthusiasts, “Tara” refers to the Tampere dump – a virtual mecca for larophiles. I made my pilgrimage on Saturday, spending ten full hours scouring through thousands of gulls with one of Finland’s resident experts.
It was great opportunity to study approximately 3000 Herring Gulls (Harmaalokki; of the northern argentatus race), with lots of all age classes present. More importantly, “Tara” is maybe the best place in the world to see the nominate fuscus form of Lesser Black-backed Gull (“Baltic Gull”; Selkäloki), of which there were close to 1000 present. Additionally, a good number of other forms of this species were present for inspection - while most of these were probably heuglini ("Heuglin's Gull), there were a few which were more typical of the western race graellsi, and at least one which was a candidate for intermedius. (See why I love gulls ?!?!)
The definite highlight, however, was a juvenile Caspian Gull (Aroharmaalokki) - which is quite uncommon in Europe. Two Great Black-backed Gulls (Merilokki) were also uncommon but regular visitors to the area. Loads of Black-headed (Naurulokki) and Common Gulls (Kalalokki) rounded out the action.
As the day proceeded, the gulls were kept increasingly nervous by a pair of Northern Goshawks (Kanahaukka) prowling for lunch. Just before hitting the highway for home, we were surprised with a visit from a much more exciting hunter – my first Black Kite (Haarahaukka). It put on quite a show, soaring very close to us and causing havoc with the gulls and crows.
Earlier this past week, I spent a morning checking out some shorebird migration in nearby Siilinjarvi. Among the 11 species seen, I was especially pleased to find two Curlew Sandpipers (Kuovisirri). Flocks of Dunlin (Suosirri) were moving through in full force, and there were good numbers of Temminick’s Stints (Lapinsirri) at two locations.
Some of the "wild and crazy" action at the Tampere dump ... (Click to enlarge)
A horribly digiscoped picture of the juvenile Caspian Gull (Aroharmaalokki) ... all the regular excuses (Click to enlarge)