ML89751471

Age

Not specified

Sex

Not specified

Observation details

***Very rare; potentially part of larger event unfolding in recent weeks. Reviewing photos of the three reported at Cape May this month confirms that at least 2 individuals are involved (based on extent of dark streaking on face), and that this is quite likely a third. An additional TBMU was picked up at Ventnor City, Atlantic Co. 7 Mar (per DLP). Initially seen as it took flight just e. of the Coral Ave jetty (apparently so close to the beach that it wasn't visible to us until it flew). Subsequently studied at length as it drifted/swam/flew on bay between St. Pete's and St. Mary's, last seen drifting east with outgoing tide. Large alcid, differentiated from COMU by unmarked flanks, clean+pale wing linings, thicker/more rounded bill, pronounced dark side-collar. From RAZO by bill shape (more dagger-like), uniform blackish behind eye, shorter tail (feet obvious in flight), pale gape line.

Technical information

Model

Canon EOS 7D Mark II

Lens

EF400mm f/5.6L USM

ISO

1250

Focal length

400 mm

Flash

Flash did not fire, auto

f-stop

f/5.6

Shutter speed

1/1600 sec

Dimensions

1584 pixels x 990 pixels

Original file size

1.27 MB