ML629073977

Observation details

Continuing second-cycle found again today by Matt Sadowski. Originally photographed by Matt on San Diego Bay back in Oct and Nov before showing up at Lower Otay Lake in December; was then photographed well offshore Point Loma earlier in month before turning up again at Lower Otay. First identified as a putative Vega Gull by Peter Adriaens of Belgium back in October. Initially on boat dock before relocating out to water and later returning to dock after county maintenance worker left. Like an advanced 2nd-cycle Am HERG, showing blackish primaries, whitish rump and uppertail coverts, and incoming gray mantle/scapulars, but with whitish, lightly marked wing coverts, extensive pale at base of tail feathers (creating a narrow black tail band), and slightly darker, medium-gray mantle/scapulars. Eyes also darker than usual for most Am HERG at this age. Photos.