Checklist S59548247

Observations

1. Sanderling

   Number observed:  1

2. Least Sandpiper

   Number observed:  1

3. Sabine's Gull

   Number observed:  1

   Details

   Full report submitted to VARCOM, and accepted in Category Two. Juvenile plumage with unmistakably striking wing pattern (a vivid black triangle on the leading portion of the outer wing, brown triangle on the leading portion of the inner wing, and very clean white in the trailing portion of each section which gained thickness towards the elbow). The back showed the consistent brown from both inner wings across it, and the head did not show black like an adult in breeding plumage would. Adults at this date should still be in breeding rather than nonbreeding plumage, though we are getting close to the transitional time frame listed in guides. Though it might not apply to all individuals, an adult I viewed last year on 16 Sep (see Previous Experience section below) still showed a full black head, and that record occurred 10 days after this current record in terms of the calendar year. Also noted (by Andrew) was a contrasting white tail with black tip to further indicate this was a young bird. Even in severe winds and light rain at the time, and viewing from the passenger seat of a car parked into the wind/rain to allow for a clear view out my window, this pattern was distinctive and viewed well for the brief period I had.

4. Laughing Gull

   Number observed:  25

5. American Herring Gull

   Number observed:  10

6. Great Black-backed Gull

   Number observed:  25

7. Lesser Black-backed Gull

   Number observed:  1

8. gull sp.

   Number observed:  200

9. Caspian Tern

   Number observed:  2

   Media

10. Forster's Tern

    Number observed:  5

11. Common Tern

    Number observed:  2

12. Sandwich Tern

    Number observed:  20

13. Royal Tern

    Number observed:  5

14. Double-crested Cormorant

    Number observed:  10

15. Brown Pelican

    Number observed:  50

    Media