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View Full Version : Kumlien's 'type' Gull?

Tristan R
March 4th, 2008, 08:06 PM
Hi,

This 2nd winter apparent Kumlien's Gull was at Loch Ryan, Dumfries and Galloway (Scotland) last Sunday.
Firstly I should say that my knowledge/experience of Kumlien's is very limited to say the least. However I felt that this bird was interesting enough to raise some questions.
The two main features I have questioned are the darkness and extent on the visible primaries (upperside) and the extent of sooty tones on the underwing. Additionally there is a hint of a pale window just short of the tip of the longest primary.

Are these features within acceptable range for Kumlien's?

I have had some interesting responses on other forums and privately, giving a variety of opinions. Although most did point towards the bird being a Kumlien's rather than anything more sinister.

I would however be very interested in any other opinions, this is a very steep learning curve for me!

Regards
Tristan
Josh Jones
March 4th, 2008, 09:47 PM
Yes, looks fine for a Kumlien's to me. Nice to see such a well-marked individual for a change!

What else was suggested Tristan?
AndyB
March 5th, 2008, 07:28 AM
Hi Tristan, I'd say your bird looks good for Kumlien's and shares many plumage traits with Jeff's 2nd cycle birds here:

http://www.pbase.com/jpkln/image/39934906
http://www.pbase.com/jpkln/image/40471615
Tristan R
March 5th, 2008, 07:03 PM
Yes, looks fine for a Kumlien's to me. Nice to see such a well-marked individual for a change!

What else was suggested Tristan?

Josh - there were several suggestion that the bird showed some features of Herring Gull x ??. Though I think this was more to do with impression of structure shown in some images.

In the field the bird did not come anywhere close to HEGU in size or structure.
Tristan R
March 5th, 2008, 07:05 PM
Hi Tristan, I'd say your bird looks good for Kumlien's and shares many plumage traits with Jeff's 2nd cycle birds here:

http://www.pbase.com/jpkln/image/39934906
http://www.pbase.com/jpkln/image/40471615

Thanks Andy - Jeff's bird does look quite similar. Superb images too, put mine to shame :laugh:
Josh Jones
March 5th, 2008, 08:21 PM
Josh - there were several suggestion that the bird showed some features of Herring Gull x ??. Though I think this was more to do with impression of structure shown in some images.

In the field the bird did not come anywhere close to HEGU in size or structure.

Fair play - I'd agree with you from the photos available, more much Iceland-like in structure (as you would expect!) as opposed to any real strong sign of Herring influence. Plumage is also good for kumlieni.

Excellent bird!