Many years later, I am still not where I would like to be in gull identification skills. However, I am glad that I took the time to try to master the local species. I find gulls fun birds to watch behavior wise, as they are always putting on a show in some way.
Here is my favorite of the gulls regularly seen around here, the Bonaparte's.
But the local birding buzz has been from another gull species.
No, not a laughing Herring Gull, but
No, not a laughing Herring Gull, but
A 1st winter Laughing Gull spotted by another Cincinnati area birder at East Fork recently. Laughing Gulls are not common in Ohio, however I have seen them at this location before. There are a few other LAGUs currently being seen around Ohio as well.
Nice find. I recently had the opportunity to see several ages of Laughing Gulls hanging out together (they are common here) helping me learn some of the plumages.
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I think that one's interest in the more challenging aspects of birding...gulls, empids, shorebirds, etc...come with time and experience. Once you are familiar with the local birds it is easier to expand to the more challenging identifications.
ReplyDeleteGulls are so difficult to ID with all the different plumages etc..
ReplyDeleteYour Laughing Gull is a beauty to see..thanks for sharing.
Great post, Donald. This is exactly why I do not try to id gulls. The Laughing Gull is one of my favorites. Happy Birding.
ReplyDeleteGreat photos. I'm glad we don't have that variety of gulls out here. Where I lived there is only one kind commonly seen. Too easy!
ReplyDeleteI find gulls interesting and challenging also. Good for you to attempt identifying them. Nice that you got to see the laughing species!
ReplyDeleteGulls are so nice to watch! Lovely post:)
ReplyDeleteQuite a formidable task - to id the different gulls. Your photos are excellent references.
ReplyDeleteDonald, You are way ahead of me. Gulls and shorebirds are a challenge for me. Nice post and pictures!
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