The sun finally came back out yesterday and, although it was chilly, it was a beautiful day - perfect for checking out the gulls down by the lake. I went to Woodlawn Beach at mid-day and soaked in the peace, beauty and serenity that the sun and water always bring to the soul.
Scanning the beach, I quickly identified some mallards, Ring-billed Gulls, Herring Gulls, and... a Ross's Gull? Several? A Black-legged Kittiwake had been reported nearby about a week ago; maybe that's what I was seeing (even though these had red legs!). Thoroughly confused, and doubting the Ross's Gull ID as they'd be a rarity, I took a healthy mix of photos for study later on.
I'm glad I took those photos - after consulting a couple of experts, it turns out that the gulls in question are confirmed to be Bonaparte Gulls (a lifer!). Thanks to Sal and Marilyn for their quick ID help.
After the beach, I decided to finish the trip with a hike around Tifft Nature Preserve. I got to see a Northern Mockingbird for the second time in my life, a Belted Kingfisher, and 4 Great Blue Herons!
Also seen today were:
- Northern Shovelers
- Gadwall
- American Robin
- Black-capped Chickadee
- Wren (not certain if it was a Winter Wren or a Carolina - he was too quick for me!)
- Northern Cardinal
- White-breasted Nuthatch
- Red-breasted Nuthatch
- Red-bellied Woodpecker
- Downy Woodpecker
- Hairy Woodpecker
- Tufted Titmouse