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juv/1W Herring Gull smithsonianus Figures 1-6 from Davis Oxidation Ponds, CA November, 1998 photos by Mike Rogers. All photos copyright 1998. comments by Steve Hampton

Fig 1) This is a typical bird. Note the patterning on the scapulars, coverts, and tertials. They have rather dark brown centers with well-defined notches and spots, producing a checkered look. The scapular pattern is the classic "holly-leaf" pattern. On most birds, the upper portions of the outer greater coverts are more solid dark, while the lower portions and the inner greater coverts are extensively spotted. Some birds are entirely boldly checkered, much like argenteus. The notching on the tertials is usually limited to just the tips, only rarely completely down the sides of the feathers. These tips wear down later in winter, causing the pattern to be lost. The primaries are nearly black, but show fresh edges here in this November photo.

Fig 2) This bird is a bit paler, especially on the back, where some first winter feathers may be coming in. Note the well-patterned greater coverts and the paler bill.	Fig 3) Sometimes the pale spots on the greater coverts are quite small. Still note the medium-dark brown shade to the coverts and scapulars.

Fig 4) Again, note the blackish primaries. The darkish greater covert bar is common on smithsonianus, but not universal. Some birds may appear entirely checkered here.	Fig 5) On this bird and the one below, at least P7-10 appear all dark.

Fig 7) This bird is a bit older and thus is a bit browner due to fading and has a lot more pink in the bill. Note also the pale markings on the outermost web of the outermost retrice. December 18, 1998. Santa Barbara, CA. Photo courtesy of Don DesJardin.