Slaty-backed Gull in Cook County
2018-10-28

'Casual' in Minnesota - Five or fewer records in Cook County for the Fall season

This gull, nearly in adult plumage, was found ~1330 today in Grand Portage at the boat dock behind the casino and hotel, and it was still present later this afternoon for others to see. Note the red and black markings on the bill, pale iris, mottling on the head, neck, and chest, dark gray mantle, and pink legs. Its overall size and shape were the same as the Herring Gulls with it, and its diagnostic "string of pearls" pattern on the upper and lower surface of its primaries was noted and is visible in other photos taken at the time when its wings were spread.

Kim R. Eckert; "digibin" image with 10x32 Leica Ultravid binoculars