ML20991531

Age

Not specified

Sex

Not specified

Observation details

Rare but apparent mid-atlantic/northeast invasion with records spanning the east coast from Delaware to Maine. Decided to check the Lands End parking area where Laughing Gulls are known to congregate and ended up picking out an adult Franklin's Gull in the group. Seen in direct comparison to Laughing Gulls at extremely close range. Non-breeding adult-type with dark hood (more extensive than in LAGU) and small bill. Overall more dainty in appearance than Laughing Gull with shorter legs as well. Large white primary tips dotting the wing fold as the bird roosted in the lot. Seen well in flight. Clean white underwing, much more extensive white than Laughing Gull, with dark restricted to primaries. Very exciting bird as I've driven this lot many times in the past inspecting the Laughing Gulls in hopes for a Franklins. Unfortunately this flock gets disturbed routinely by cars, motorcycles, etc.

Technical information

Model

NIKON D7100

Lens

300.0 mm f/4.0

ISO

200

Focal length

420 mm

Flash

Flash did not fire, auto

f-stop

f/5.6

Shutter speed

1/1600 sec

Dimensions

4803 pixels x 3202 pixels

Original file size

7.91 MB