Subject: [Tweeters] Renton Gulls 2/9/06: Glaucland Gull - yes,
Date: Feb 9 21:57:22 2006
From: Matt Bartels - mattxyz at earthlink.net


Hi Tweets-
A quick note to say that 5 of us searched unsuccessfully for the
Slaty-backed Gull in Renton today. We watched from Gene Coulon
Mem.Beach Park between 4:15 and 5:30 as the gulls streamed in. Though
the SBGU didn't show, we were treated to good long looks at the
'Glaucland' [Iceland/Glaucous, aka "Bob"] Gull. I guess it ranges
further from Kent than previously imagined.

Today, it seemed to show its dainty, small side - the GWGUs nearby
were bigger than it, the head looked very rounded, and the bill
pretty small. That said, the gonydeal angle was more pronounced than
I've noticed on previous viewings. Still not a huge thick bill, in my
view, but less of a straight bill than I thought I'd seen before.

Finally, also, this morning at the Montlake Fill [Seattle], a Tree
Sparrow cruised by a low altitude. That was my first sparrow of the
year and seemed rather appropriate for such a beautiful day.

Best,

Matt Bartels
Seattle, WA
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