Putative Thayer's Gull - Faroe Isles

[RSNaarhus]

Hello

This adult gull was seen on the Faroe Isles in January 2012.

Inspired by this thread (viewtopic.php?f=13&t=690) on the topic, I would especially like to hear some thoughts on this gull (especially from North American birders e.g. Dave from New Foundland) ?

Would this bird go for a Thayer's in e.g. New Foundland ? And is the markings/lack of on p5 and p6 at all compatible with a Thayer's Gull ?

Best wishes, Rune

[adriaens]

Hi Rune,

the dark medial band on P10 should exclude Kumlien's Gull. However, are there no shots of the underwing, where it would be easier to judge and confirm this character?
On the other hand, not just the broken pattern on P6 is problematic for Thayer's Gull, but also the structure of this bird, and the very pale iris is uncommon.
It may be very unfortunate, but this could well be an intergrade Kumlien's x Thayer's...

[RSNaarhus]

Hi Peter

Thanks for the answer.

I have to admit that I don´t quite understand what you mean by "dark medial band".

I have added som pics showing the underwing.

Bw, Rune

[JanJ]

Here Rune:

http://gull-research.org/thayers/thayer ... ate2c.html

[RSNaarhus]

Thanks to the always helpful Jan J