Herring Gull (argentatus & argenteus)

(last update: February 11, 2013)

Herring Gull argenteus 3CY, May 22 2014, Katwijk, the Netherlands.

2nd generation flight feathers, similar to juvenile pattern but with finer spots and more vermiculated. Argenteus often with some grey scapulars or complete grey 'saddle', in northern argentatus grey feathers in upperparts may be still not apparent. Note pale iris; base of bill often yellowish in 3CY compared to 2CY birds.

Complete moult started: P1-P2 fully grown, P3 growing, P4 missing, P5-P10 old 2nd generation.