Great Black-backed Gull (Larus marinus)

(last update: July 12, 2015)

Great Black-backed Gull (Larus marinus) 2cy: May 17 2002, Le Portel - Boulogne sur Mer, France (50.42 N - 01.34 E).

An individual that has completely replaced the row of median coverts. The upper three tertials have been replaced and the three inner greater coverts have been renewed as well. Greater covert #4 is growing, #5-6 are still juvenile and from #7 outwards the central and outer greaters have been dropped, except #11 which is a fresh second generation feather. A few lesser coverts have been replaced for second generation feathers and a few lower lesser coverts are missing. Moult in the scapulars has been suspended and the last moulted scapulars can be found in the rear lower scapular row. Primary moult has arrived at p7, with p6 missing and the tail-feather moult included R6 which is new. Replaced rectrices is a common phenomenon among 2cy GBBG in May.