The regular 3rd winter Caspian Gull was soon on the scene at 11.45 busy washing, preening and dozing, this bird stayed until just after 13.00.
A full moon ??
Paul Jeynes had joined me for a while before heading off to Chasewater? A shame, as being local, he's on first name terms with these Gulls - just look what dropped in at 13.35!! Wow - I feel a 'waxing lyrical' moment coming on - no apologies...
This really was a good looking Gull - pristine white plumage, that coal like beady eye and a poise/presence that oozed class! My first thought was (Bloody hell or something like that!) a classic adult Caspian Gull. It certainly is at least 4th winter, the black mark of Zorro on the bill plus tiny hint of brown on the primary median coverts (see the flight shot), maybe pointing to a subadult 4th winter bird?
It didn't actually do a lot but what the heck - how about some portrait poses.....
It flew at 13.40 (whilst I was busy with numb fingers trying to change a now full memory card!!!) I did at least get one shot as it circled overhead.....
I didn't stay much longer either, the 3rd winter bird returned for 30 mins or so before the Gulls all left just before 15.00 - for the Chasewater roost.....
