Steven Fedstein wrote that Palmer (1976) noted a cline in parvipes from
east to west. He questioned if taverneri was a valid subspecies.

Actually Palmer notes that he combined the two subspecies in his
discussion. So of course he would mention a cline.

The birds on the west coast of Alaska are darker than parvipes and are
considered the race taverneri. The color differences are rather abrupt
between the two and does not represent a cline, any more so than any other
race.

If they are two different races remains for the experts, not me.

Harry Nehls, Portland, Or.
hnehls at teleport.com (503) 233-3976