(2nd hand) Black-headed Gull, Allegan Co., 20 Oct

[Caleb Putnam]

Rick Brigham just called from Oval Beach in Douglas (Allegan Co.) to say that at his lakewatch a few minutes ago (it's now 11:20AM) he had an adult basic Black-headed Gull out over the lake.  It was associating loosely with Bonaparte's Gulls, which are moving south today in decent numbers.  The Black-headed was not directly with Bonaparte's but was within a pan of the scope from them at the time of viewing.  Here is Rick's description:

1) Larger than Bonaparte's Gulls
2) Similarly appearing to Bonatparte's (in overall plumage), including white triangle on outer upperwing
3) Dark primaries on otherwise light underwing
4) White in leading edge of wing more extensive than in Bonaparte's

5) Gray on upperparts slightly lighter gray than Bonaparte's 

6) Flight style less buoyant than Bonaparte's 
 
The bird was first discovered when directly west of the beach, then proceeded to fly due west out into the lake until he lost it.  As far as trying to refind this bird, presumably the harbors south of Douglas would be best (South Haven, Tiscornia/St Joesph, New Buffalo, etc.), although it's anyone's guess where this bird will head next.

Good Birding,
Caleb Putnam

Caleb G Putnam 

Sparta, MI

larus10 at hotmail.com
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