I tried for the Black-tailed Gull once in August and once in September
without success. Gina Sheridan's recent posting inspired me to see if the
third time would be the charm. And it was today. There was a 10+ high tide
around 3 p.m. I knew there was no way I'd haul myself out to the coast for
a morning peek but figured I could handle late afternoon. I arrived at
North Cove at 4 p.m. Still too much water for the gulls. So I sat in the
car waiting for a rain squall to pass and the tide to ebb a bit. At 4:30 I
pulled on my mud boots, hoisted the scope to my shoulder and headed out to
cross the creek. Gulls were now starting to arrive as more beach was
exposed. At 4:45 I spotted our Asian visitor and watched it bathe
vigorously, preen fastidiously, take some hop-flights so I could observe its
tail, and then settle in to nap. By 5:35 p.m. the wind had thoroughly
chilled me so I headed off, leaving the Black-tailed to rest among its
companions. What impressed me the most is how striking is the yellow iris
in the midst of the other dark-eyed gulls. What surprised me the most is
that I was the only birder there this afternoon. Made me wonder if I was
the last person who had not yet observed this fascinating gull.

Good birding,

Carol Riddell
Edmonds, WA