ML65252661

Age and sex

Unknown age, Unknown sex - X

Media notes

Back Skimmer at Rodeo Lagoon, Marin, CA - Poor record shot from handheld iPhone!

Observation details

First noticed skimming over the main lagoon in the fog at c. 7:55am and last seen at 8:50am, although it disappeared in between and was seen flying out over the beach towards the ocean at 8:30am before returning 5 minutes later. It was on the wing the entire time seen, working the full length of the main lagoon and frequently 'skimming'. Age wise, probably a molting adult or 2nd calendar year bird (versus my initial thoughts of a juvenile). Size a little smaller than a Caspian Tern (in the same field of view) but slimmer, long winged with buoyant flight (when not skimming) recalling Black Tern. Dark slate-gray back and upper wing with bright white trailing edge to the wing, white collar, and smudged dark gray cap to head. Under parts white, and silver under-wing transitioning to dark gray at the primaries. Tail white with central dark gray line. Diagnostic large 'dagger' bill with much longer lower mandible, 2/3rds black from the tip, transitioning to red/dark pink towards the bill base. A real surprise at this location!

Technical information

Model

iPhone 6

Lens

iPhone 6 back camera 4.15mm f/2.2

ISO

32

Focal length

4.2 mm

Flash

Flash did not fire, auto

f-stop

f/2.2

Shutter speed

1/608 sec

Dimensions

2448 pixels x 3264 pixels

Original file size

811.72 KB