Greetings,

A dark-mantled gull was reported from Lewiston, Idaho, back in early Nov.
Yesterday, I presumably relocated the gull--Idaho's 5th LESSER BLACK-BACKED
GULL. It was loafing with about 150 gulls on the rocky islands between US 95
and Potlatch Corp. The bird was noticeable larger than nearby Ring-billeds,
smaller than nearby Herrings. The wings and mantle were very dark grey,
contrasting greatly with the other two species. The bill was bright yellow
with a red gonydeal spot. The head was white with dark streaking on the back
of the head and nape. Legs were fleshy to orangy-yellow to yellow depending
on the light, reflections off the water, and whether the sun was out or
behind clouds. Dave Holick drove down from Moscow and confirmed my
observations. A LBBG was in the valley last year as well. If this is the
same bird as that reported in early Nov, the bird has been in the valley for
nearly six weeks.

Good birding,

Kas Dumroese
Moscow, ID
dumroese at iglide dot net