Caspian Terns and Bonaparte’s Gulls at Grant Park in Milwaukee County Wisconsin on April 14, 2016

One of my birding stops today was Grant Park in Milwaukee County. One of the highlights was a steady stream of Bonaparte’s Gulls heading south. Another highlight was a small flock of Caspian Terns on the beach. The first ones of the year are always so cool to see. The Caspian Terns were hanging out with Ring-billed Gulls and a couple of Bonaparte’s Gulls on the beach until some beach folks came along and then the terns flew south. Also flying by were a couple good size flocks of first of the year Double-crested Cormorants. A fun day out with lots of new birds for the year! Images were taken on April 14, 2016.

_rIMG_9256_cr

Caspian Tern

Caspian Tern

Caspian Tern, I see a band on this one…..I’ll have to look into that.

Caspian Terns

Caspian Terns

Caspian Tern

Caspian Tern

Caspian Tern

Caspian Tern

Caspian Tern

Caspian Tern

_rIMG_9249_cr

Caspian Tern

Caspian Tern hanging out with Ring-billed Gulls and Bonaparte's Gulls

Caspian Terns hanging out with Ring-billed Gulls and a Bonaparte’s Gull

Caspian Terns

Caspian Terns

Bonaparte's Gull

Bonaparte’s Gull

Bonaparte's Gull

Bonaparte’s Gull

Bonaparte's Gull, not sure what this was, was it picking off a bug?

Bonaparte’s Gull, not sure what this was, was it picking off a bug?

_rIMG_8686_cr

Bonaparte's Gull incoming

Bonaparte’s Gulls all heading south today!

Bonaparte's Gull hanging out in the water

Bonaparte’s Gull hanging out in the water

Bonaparte's Gull

Bonaparte’s Gull

Bonaparte's Gull

Bonaparte’s Gull

Bonaparte's Gull

Bonaparte’s Gull

Double-crested Cormorants

Double-crested Cormorants

Double-crested Cormorant

Double-crested Cormorant

 

Glaucous Gull Juvenile and other gulls on Milwaukee’s Lakefront in Milwaukee Wisconsin on February 24, 2016

I birded the Milwaukee Lakefront this morning and the highlight was gulls. 1 Gluacous Gull juvenile at Bradford Beach. Other gulls were a Glaucous Gull adult and 2 Great Black-blacked Gulls adults near the petroleum pier on broken ice or on the pier itself. It was a cloudy day with stiff winds making it feel like a cold January day. Images were taken on February 24, 2016.

_rIMG_5118_cr

Glaucous Gull juvenile at Bradford Beach

Glaucous Gull

Binomial name: Larus hyperboreus

Category: Gulls, Terns, and Skimmers

Size: 27” long, 60” wing span

Weight: 3.1 lb

Habitat: This large gulls breeding grounds are in the northern arctic. It spends its winters farther north than most gulls on coasts, lakes, urban areas, dumps and agricultural fields. Mostly breeds along shorelines of the seacoast, rivers and lakes, also refuse dumps. These gulls are usually not found inland.

Diet: It captures prey such as plovers, small ducks, ptarmigans, auks, birds, small mammals and invertebrates. It also scavenges dead fish, carrion, garbage and dead animal matter.

Nesting: The nest is a shallow bowl constructed of twigs, grasses, sedges, moss and sometimes feathers. The nest is located on cliff edges, grass slopes above cliffs, islands or ponds on the tundra. 3 eggs are usually laid brown in color with dark brown spots.

Glaucous Gull adult near the Petroleum Pier

Glaucous Gull adult near the Petroleum Pier

_rIMG_5027_cr

_rIMG_5037_cr

_rIMG_5038_cr

_rIMG_5039_cr

_rIMG_5040_cr

_rIMG_5053_cr

_rIMG_5066_cr

_rIMG_5072_cr

_rIMG_5128_cr

_rIMG_5131_cr

_rIMG_5140_cr

Glaucous Gull juvenile, left and Herring Gull right

Glaucous Gull Juvenile with Herring Gull right

_rIMG_5207_cr

Trying to keep its balance with the high winds!

_rIMG_5218_cr

Trying to keep its balance with the high winds!

Glaucous Gull adult at Bradford Beach the next day 2/26/2016

Glaucous Gull adult at Bradford Beach 2/26/2016

Glaucous Gull adult at Bradford Beach the next day 2/26/2016

Glaucous Gull adult at Bradford Beach on 2/26/2016

Great Black-backed Gull 2nd Cycle at Bradford Beach in Milwaukee Wisconsin on January 16, 2016

The highlight this morning while birding some of Milwaukee’s lakefront was a Great Black-backed Gull 2nd cycle. A Great Black-backed adult was also in the area but remained far off shore just hanging out by itself. Images were taken on January 16, 2016 on a very cold, sunny morning with a steady breeze.

___rrrIMG_8196_cr_cr

___rIMG_8034_cr

___rIMG_8037_cr

Hanging out with a Ring-billed left

Hanging out with a Herring Gull left

___rIMG_8085_cr

Landing gear coming down!

Landing gear coming down!

___rIMG_8097_cr

___rIMG_7619_cr

Herring Gull right

___rIMG_8196_cr

___rIMG_8200_cr

___rIMG_8211_cr

___rIMG_8219_cr

___rIMG_8220_cr

___rIMG_8221_cr

___rIMG_8222_cr

___rIMG_8223_cr

___rIMG_8224_cr

___rIMG_8226_cr

___rIMG_8227_cr

___rIMG_8272_cr

Ring-billed Gulls

Ring-billed Gulls

Slaty-backed Gull at the Johnson Creek Landfill in Jefferson County Wisconsin on January 7, 2016

I went out this morning to the Johnson Creek Landfill in hopes to see the Slaty-backed Gull that was reported by Tom W yesterday, nice find Tom and thanks for getting the word out! The exact location is a frozen pond on Waldmann Lane just west of the landfill. I had not been out there for about 3 weeks so I was due. I arrived around 9 am and looked the gulls over well on the ice. About an hour later Ted K showed up and we continued to look through all the gulls coming and going. After a while I spotted what I thought was the Slaty-backed Gull and we looked it over well, that it was. After about 30 minutes it took to the air and towards the landfill area. The images are rough, distant shots, this bird was at least 3/4 of the way across to frozen pond. Images show the “string of pearls” on the wings. Not a life bird as I got the one that was here on December 22, 2012. I fun couple of hours on a gloomy day. Other gulls to note that were present (3) Lesser Black-backed Gull and (2) Glaucous Gulls. Images were taken on January 7, 2016.

_rxxIMG_6768_cr

Slaty-backed Gull

Binomial name: Larus schistisagus

Category: Gulls, Tern. and Skimmers

Size: 25” long, 58” wing span

Weight: 3.0 lb

Note: An Asian gull that is considered a rare breeder on the west coast of Alaska and is a very rare visitor to North America.

____rIMG_6454_cr

_rxxIMG_6722_cr

_rxxIMG_6756_cr

_rxxIMG_6758_cr

_rxxIMG_6759_cr

_rxxIMG_6763_cr

_rxxIMG_6766_cr

_rxxIMG_6771_cr

_rxxIMG_6783_cr

_rIMG_6793_cr

_rxxIMG_6802_cr

Gyrfalcon in Superior Wisconsin and the Ivory Gull in Duluth Minnesota on January 2, 2016

I made the run up to Superior Wisconsin and Duluth Minnesota along with Jenny, Rita and John. We arrived a few minutes before sun up. The 2 target birds for us for the day were the rare Gyrfalcon (currently in WI) and the very rare visiting Ivory Gull (currently in MN). It was an exciting day watching both species in action. The Gyrfalcon chased and Common Raven, then the Common Raven appeared to chase the Gyrfalcon. What a show it was! The Ivory Gull was there at sun up with many spectators, ate and on occasion, flew at some high speeds with Herring Gulls. Life birds for all of us on a cold morning and full sun, with low winds. A fun trip for the 4 of us and with friends and birders from around the state. Images were taken on January 2, 2016.

Gyrfalcon in pursuit of the Common Raven?

Gyrfalcon in pursuit of the Common Raven, images taken at about 1/4 mile from birds

Gyrfalcon

Binomial name: Falco rusticolus

Category: Gulls, Terns, and Skimmers

Size: 22” long, 47” wing span

Weight: 3.1 lb

Notes: Breeds in the Arctic, wintering in northern Canada south to the northern US.

Ivory Gull

Ivory Gull

Ivory Gull

Binomial name: Pagophila eburnea

Category: Gulls

Size: 17” long, 37” wing span

Weight: 1.4 lb

Notes: Typically spends it’s life in the high Arctic. The Ivory Gull nests are sometimes eaten by caribou.

___rIMG_5404_cr

Gyrfalcon in pursuit of the Common Raven

___rIMG_5407_cr

Gyrfalcon in pursuit of the Common Raven

___rIMG_5431_cr

Gyrfalcon in pursuit of the Common Raven

___rIMG_5436_cr

Gyrfalcon in pursuit of the Common Raven

___rIMG_5437_cr

Gyrfalcon in pursuit of the Common Raven

___rIMG_5440_cr

Gyrfalcon in pursuit of the Common Raven

___rIMG_5449_cr

Common Raven chasing the Gyrfalcon

___rIMG_5450_cr

Common Raven chasing the Gyrfalcon

___rIMG_5479_cr

Gyrfalcon, the chase ends!

___rIMG_5490_cr

Gyrfalcon cruising near a build roof top from a 1/4 mile away

___rIMG_5526_cr

Gyrfalcon

Ivory Gull

Ivory Gull

__rIMG_5255_cr

Ivory Gull

Ivory Gull

Ivory Gull

Ivory Gull

Ivory Gull

Ivory Gull

Ivory Gull

Ivory Gull

Ivory Gull

__rIMG_4429_cr

Ivory Gull

Ivory Gull

Ivory Gull

Ivory Gull

Ivory Gull

Ivory Gull

Ivory Gull

Ivory Gull with Herring Gull

Ivory Gull with Herring Gull

Ivory Gull with Herring Gull

Ivory Gull with Herring Gull

Ivory Gull with Herring Gull

Ivory Gull with Herring Gull

Ivory Gull with Herring Gull

Ivory Gull with Herring Gull

Ivory Gull with Herring Gull

Ivory Gull with Herring Gull

Ivory Gull

Ivory Gull

Ivory Gull

Ivory Gull

Ivory Gull

Ivory Gull

Ivory Gull

Ivory Gull

Ivory Gull

Ivory Gull

Ivory Gull

Ivory Gull

Ivory Gull

Ivory Gull

Ivory Gull

Ivory Gull

Ivory Gull

Ivory Gull

___rxxxIMG_5339_cr

Ivory Gull

Ivory Gull

Ivory Gull

Ivory Gull

Ivory Gull

Kumlien’s Iceland Gull at the Shore Yacht Club in Milwaukee Wisconsin on December 15, 2015

I birded some of the lakefront mid morning today in Milwaukee. My last stop was going to be South Shore Yacht Club. Only a few blocks away from there, I got a text from Jen A telling me of a beautiful Kumlein’s Iceland Gull was present on the docks. Thanks Jen! This gull may have 1st been found by John M early morning, nice find John! I stopped and we both got some nice views of this bird flying and watched it hanging out with some Ring-billed Gulls. I think this gull would be considered a 2nd winter gull.  Also present was a Peregrine Falcon, but it was out far on a dock and only gave back views. I left for awhile and checked out the Petroleum Pier which had pretty much the same ducks that I have been seeing for the last 2 weeks. Lakeshore State Park still had the female Long-tailed Duck along with the ducks that it had been hanging with. Not much else to report. A fun hour or so out, always a treat to see a different gull on the lakefront! Images were taken on December 15, 2015.

_rIMG_0684_cr

Kumlien’s Iceland Gull

Binomial name: Larus glaucoides

Category: Gulls, Terns, and Skimmers

Size: 22” long, 54” wing span

Weight: 1.8 lb

_rIMG_0695_cr

_rIMG_0562_cr

_rIMG_0563_cr

_rIMG_0564_cr

Kumlien's Iceland Gull left, Ring-billed Gull right

Kumlien’s Iceland Gull left, Ring-billed Gull right

Kumlien's Iceland Gull left, Ring-billed Gull right

Kumlien’s Iceland Gull left, Ring-billed Gull right

Kumlien's Iceland Gullhanging out with Ring-billed Gulls, 6th from the left

Kumlien’s Iceland Gull hanging out with Ring-billed Gulls, 6th from the left

Kumlien's Iceland Gull left, Ring-billed Gulls, 3 right

Kumlien’s Iceland Gull left, Ring-billed Gulls, 5 right

_rIMG_0702_cr

_rIMG_0680_cr

Take-off!

Take-off!

Take-off!

Take-off!

Great Black-backed Gulls at Bradford Beach on December 4, 2015

One of the birding moments today was watching a couple of adult Great Black-backed Gulls at Bradford Beach in Milwaukee. One of the birds was shy and only came in once, and a walker flushed it. The other had only one thing on it’s mind, eating, and that was part of a dead fish at waters edge. A couple of days ago, I could not even get on the beach, 3 Great Black-backed Gulls were present that day and when I set foot on the beach they headed out on to the water. Today, this food was a factor, I was within 100 feet of many gulls as were walkers and the one Great Black-backed Gull with in them never moved, it worked on the fish, but it did keep an eye on me the whole time too. Had a little confrontation with a couple of Herring Gulls but overall not much trouble. The Herring and Ring-billed Gulls that were around  pretty much kept their distance and respected this gulls space. I noticed this gull took the dead fish and dragged it into the water numerous times and out, it appeared it was washing the dead fish as it ate it. One time it looked like it was going to cover the dead fish up with bills full of algae but that process did not go far. At the end, the Great Black-backed Gull had appeared to have filled up and took to the air, then sitting far out on the lake bathing. A couple of Herring Gulls took over the piece of fish. The only other highlight today was seeing 2 Hermit Thrushes at Grant Park in Milwaukee below a bluff. Other than that a slow day birding where I was, few ducks out on the lake for this time of year. Beautiful day out with mild temps and sun, low winds. Images were taken on December 4, 2015.

_rIMG_6295_cr

Great Black-backed Gull

Binomial name: Larus marinus

Category: Gulls, Terns, and Skimmers

Description: The largest member of the gull family.  White feathers with grayish-black backs and wings.  The wings have white wingtips.  Pink legs, strong yellow or pinkish-yellow bill.

Size: 25” – 31” long, 4’ 10” – 5’ 7” wingspan

Weight: 1.7 lbs. – 5.1 lbs.

 _rIMG_6070_cr

_rIMG_6111_cr

Getting the dead fish back out of the water

The Great Black-backed Gull retrieves the dead fish it just put in the water, evidently for washing

_rIMG_6043_cr

_rIMG_6050_cr

_rIMG_6052_cr

_rIMG_6083_cr

A Herring Gull watching, would love to get some of that fish!

_rIMG_6089_cr

A Herring Gull watching, would love to get some of that fish!

_rIMG_5372_cr

Taking a drink

Taking a drink

Taking a drink

Taking a drink

Taking a drink

Taking a drink

_rIMG_5696_cr

Dragging it back out of the water after possible washing

Got flushed by a jogger but is coming back in

Got flushed by a jogger but is coming back in

Not wasting any time getting back to that fish!

Not wasting any time getting back to that fish with a Herring Gull on the left.

A little confrontation

A little confrontation

A little confrontation

A little confrontation

_rIMG_6201_cr

A little confrontation

A little confrontation

_rIMG_6303_cr

Herring Gull left, Ring-billed Gull right

Herring Gull left, Ring-billed Gull right

_rIMG_6295_cr

Gull is full, time to get out on the lake!

Gull is full, time to get out on the lake!

Gull is full, time to get out on the lake!

Gull is full, time to get out on the lake!

_rIMG_6657_cr

_rIMG_6662_cr

Wings down!

Wings down!

Great Black-backed Gulls at Bradford Beach in Milwaukee Wisconsin on November 28, 2015

I hit Milwaukee’s lakefront early this morning and it was pretty quiet. The only highlight were 3 Great Black-backed Gulls, adults nonbreeding at Bradford Beach. They came and went but at one time 3 were on the beach within ~20 feet of each other. They mostly hung out in the water with walkers on the beach. Great Black-backed Gulls have always been skittish with me, you just will not be on the beach with them. Step a foot on the beach and they are gone! There was a little harassing from Herring Gulls but that was limited. Bruce showed up, Jym showed up later and he just had 2 Lesser Black-backed Gulls at the marina along with a Thayer’s Gull. We thought we had a Lesser Black-backed Gull early on but could not confirm it. Jen and John showed up too and we all watch the Great Black-backed Gulls while they hung around for the most part out in the lake. There was a stiff wind out of the north and it made for a very cold morning, but it was a fun time out birding with friends! Weather like this for almost the 1st of December, we will take it. Images were taken on November 28, 2015.

_ggbg cover rIMG_2572_cr

Great Black-backed Gull

Binomial name: Larus marinus

Category: Gulls, Terns, and Skimmers

Description: The largest member of the gull family.  White feathers with grayish-black backs and wings.  The wings have white wingtips.  Pink legs, strong yellow or pinkish-yellow bill.

Size: 25” – 31” long, 4’ 10” – 5’ 7” wingspan

Weight: 1.7 lbs. – 5.1 lbs.

Habitat: Rocky and sandy coastal shorelines, ponds, lakes, and marshes

Diet: 50% or more of their diet is often garbage or human refuse.  They also eat fish, insects, crabs, smaller birds, chick eggs, and land animals such as rats.

Nesting: Both parents build several nests on or near stacks of rocks or fallen logs. The female chooses the best one, and it is lined with grass, seaweed, and other vegetation or garbage such as rope and pieces of plastic.  The female will lay a clutch of 3 eggs and both parents incubate them for about 28 days.  Both parents raise the hatchlings, take turns finding food.  The breeding pair will reuse the same nesting site year after year.

Notes: Great Black-backed Gull feathers were used in clothing while feathers were fashionable in the late 1800’s.  Once the trend ended, populations began to increase.  This trend continues with the increase in refuse sites across North America and Europe.

_rIMG_1620_cr

_rIMG_1636_cr

_rIMG_1785_cr

3 Great Black-backed Gull on the beach!

Distant shot of 3 Great Black-backed Gulls on the beach!

_rIMG_2570_cr

_rIMG_2574_cr

_rIMG_2504_cr

_rIMG_2535_cr

They all want some of the food, with a Herring Gull and Ring-billed Gulls

_rIMG_2537_cr

They all want some of the food, with a Herring Gull and Ring-billed Gulls

_rIMG_2540_cr

With a Herring Gull and Ring-billed Gulls

Under the wing

Under the wing

Back view

Back view

_rIMG_2668_cr

Just took a drink!

_rIMG_2747_cr

_rIMG_2800_cr

_rIMG_2183_cr

__r850IMG_2614_cr

Franklin’s Gull at North Point in Sheboygan Wisconsin on November 12, 2015

I decided on the way into Milwaukee early morning being still dark with a light mist I would change plans and try for the Black-headed Gull that was reported yesterday by Daryl T in Sheboygan. When I arrived, it was just light. I stopped on the road near North Point and noticed a different gull near the waters edge. It was a Franklin’s Gull in nonbreeding plumage. A life bird for me that has avoided me well for the last few years. I have chased many reports the last couple of years, finally! The images are crude as it was just light, I shot from my parked car with the window down as a dog walker was a few feet away from the Franklin’s and moving towards it. After the bird flushed from the dog walker it flew just off shore for a minute and that was the end of that bird. I hung around for a couple of hours just in case it returned or the Black-headed Gull showed, neither happened. I stopped at Port Washington and a Great Black-backed Gull stood way out near the end of a dock. After I checked the area for other species south of that, returned, it appeared to be sleeping sound in the same place. I checked the Milwaukee Lakefront on the way back as I saw Steve L’s post of the Franklin’s Gulls moving south on the lake. I saw a flock of about 15 at the Lake Express Ferry, they were heading south. When I first saw the flock flying, it was quiet obvious it was a species I had not seen before as the way the flock moved.  I also noticed a flock of about 20 Snow Buntings on the lakefront. A fun day out, weather was really not all that bad, it was not cold. Images were taken on November 12, 2015.

Franklin's Gull

Franklin’s Gull

Franklin’s Gull

Binomial name: Larus pipixcan

Category: Gulls, Terns and Skimmers

Size: 14.5” long, 36” wing span

Weight: 10 oz

Franklin's Gull with 2 Ring-billed Gull and Herring Gull

Franklin’s Gull with 3 Ring-billed Gulls and Herring Gull

Franklin's Gull

Franklin’s Gull

Franklin's Gull

Franklin’s Gull

Franklin's Gull with a Ring-billed Gull

Franklin’s Gull with a preening Ring-billed Gull

Franklin's Gull

Franklin’s Gull

Franklin's Gull with a Ring-billed Gull being flushed

Franklin’s Gull with a Ring-billed Gull being flushed

Franklin's Gull

Franklin’s Gull

Great Black-backed Gull looking around at the Port Washington Marina

Great Black-backed Gull looking around at the Port Washington Marina

Great Black-backed Gull sound asleep at the Port Washington Marina

Great Black-backed Gull sound asleep at the Port Washington Marina

Partial flock of Franklin's Gulls high up and moving south over the Lake Express Ferry Milwaukee WI 11/12/15

Partial flock of Franklin’s Gulls high up and moving south over the Lake Express Ferry Milwaukee WI 11/12/15

Bonaparte’s Gull at Lakeshore State Park in Milwaukee Wisconsin on October 1, 2015

Birding Lakeshore State Park this morning produced an adult Bonaparte’s Gull, nonbreeding plumage. It was hanging out with about 20 Ring-billed Gulls. All the gulls were flushed with a fire department group coming in for some underwater diving practice. The Bonaparte’s Gull did not return to the area after it headed out over the water. I also had a distant views of 4 Horned Lark but a jogger unknowingly flush the bird and they headed up high and south. Plentiful were Dark-eyed Juncos, White-crowned Sparrows and Double-crested Cormorants. Partly cloudy, stiff winds and cold temps made for winter coat weather on the lakefront. Images were taken on October 1, 2015.

___rnewIMG_4681_cr

Bonaparte’s Gull, adult nonbreeding plumage

Bonaparte’s Gull

Binomial name: Larus philadelphia

Category: Gulls, Tern, and Skimmers

Size: 13.5” long, 33” wing span

Weight: 7.0 oz

Bonaparte's Gull with Ring-billed Gulls

Bonaparte’s Gull with Ring-billed Gulls

Bonaparte's Gull

Bonaparte’s Gull

Bonaparte's Gull

Bonaparte’s Gull preening

Bonaparte's Gull

Bonaparte’s Gull

Bonaparte's Gull with Ring-billed Gulls

Bonaparte’s Gull with Ring-billed Gulls

Bonaparte's Gull

Bonaparte’s Gull

Bonaparte's Gull

Bonaparte’s Gull

Headed over the water, Bonaparte's Gull

Headed over the water, Bonaparte’s Gull

*************************************************************************************************

For Reference Only

Reference only - Bonaparte's Gull in breeding plumage. Image taken at North Point Sheboygan Wisconsin on June 17, 2013

Bonaparte’s Gull in breeding plumage. Image taken at North Point Sheboygan Wisconsin on June 17, 2013

Forster’s Tern at Bradford Beach in Milwaukee Wisconsin on September 28, 2015

I did some birding on the Milwaukee lakefront early this morning and some of the places hit were the Magic Hedge, Bradford and McKinley Beaches, Veterans and Lakeshore State Park, for the most part it was very slow. Yellow-rumped Warblers  were at most locations. The highlight was a Forster’s Tern, juvenile at Bradford Beach on my 3rd stop there this morning.  This little bird among many larger Ring-billed Gulls was present at waters edge. Birds change on the beach often with many walkers of all sorts. It moved around the beach and out of sight for periods of time too. It dived times for food and did catch some fish and often was harassed by Ring-billed Gulls on and off the beach. I saw many chases far out over the water. Sometimes the Ring-billed Gulls let it rest too. It was overcast with mild temps, light winds from the east while I was there this morning. Images were taken on September 28, 2015.

_rfIMG_3489_cr

Forster’s Tern

Binomial name: Sterna forsteri

Category: Gulls Tern, and Skimmers

Size: 13” long, 31” wing span

Weight: 6.0 oz

_rfIMG_3388_cr

_rfIMG_3269_cr

_rfIMG_3354_cr

Ring-billed Gull harassing

Ring-billed Gull harassing

Ring-billed Gull harassing

Ring-billed Gull harassing

Ring-billed Gull harassing

Ring-billed Gull harassing

Size comparison image with Ring-billed Gull left, Forster's Tern right

Size comparison image with Ring-billed Gull left, Forster’s Tern right

Ring-billed Gull chasing the Forster's Tern

Ring-billed Gull chasing the Forster’s Tern with fish

_rfIMG_2906_cr

Forster’s Tern with fish

Ring-billed Gull chasing the Forster's Tern

Ring-billed Gull chasing the Forster’s Tern

Forster's Tern making a dive for a fish

Forster’s Tern making a dive for a fish

Forster's Tern making a dive for a fish

Forster’s Tern making a dive for a fish

A ring-billed Gull right there after the Forster's Tern tries for food

A Ring-billed Gull right there after the Forster’s Tern tries for a fish

_rfIMG_3184_cr

_rfIMG_3140_cr

_rfIMG_3105_cr

_rfIMG_3000_cr

Before the dive for a fish

Before the dive for a fish

____850_rfIMG_2288_cr

_rfIMG_4127_cr

_rfIMG_3687_cr

_rfIMG_3671_cr

_rfIMG_3476_cr

_rfIMG_3504_cr

 

 

Kumlien’s Iceland Gull and Great Black-backed Gulls at the South Shore Yacht Club in Milwaukee Wisconsin on February 8, 2015

I made a run down to South Shore Yacht Club in Milwaukee late morning. I had just saw the report by Jennifer A of the Kumlien’s Iceland Gull, 2nd cycle. This bird has been around the area but I had missed previous tries. I was down there yesterday and it was still froze up and almost bird less.  Today it was open water south of the club and very birdie. Along with the Kumlien’s Iceland were two Great Black-backed Gulls, one adult and one 1st winter and 2 Glaucous Gulls. Thanks to Jennifer for the report. Images were taken on February 8, 2015.

_rIMG_1724_cr

Kumlien’s Iceland Gull

Binomial name: Larus glaucoides

Category: Gulls, Terns, and Skimmers

Size: 22” long, 54” wing span

Weight: 1.8 lb

_rIMG_1826_cr

_rIMG_1933_cr

_rIMG_1858_cr

_rIMG_1717_cr

_rIMG_1690_cr

_rIMG_1665_cr

_rIMG_1662_cr

_rIMG_1624_cr

_rIMG_1719_cr

_rIMG_1712_cr

_rIMG_1714_cr

Great Black-backed Gulls

Great Black-backed Gull, adult

Great Black-backed Gull, adult

Great Black-backed Gull, adult

Great Black-backed Gull, adult

_rIMG_1563_cr

Great Black-backed Gull, adult

Great Black-backed Gull, adult

Great Black-backed Gull, adult

Great Black-backed Gull, 1st winter

Great Black-backed Gull, 1st winter

Great Black-backed Gull, 1st winter

Great Black-backed Gull, 1st winter

Great Black-backed Gull, 1st winter

Great Black-backed Gull, 1st winter

Great Black-backed Gull, 1st winter

Great Black-backed Gull, 1st winter

Great Black-backed Gull, 1st winter

Great Black-backed Gull, 1st winter

Great Black-backed Gull, 1st winter

Great Black-backed Gull, 1st winter

_3 offbamar 850IMG_1366_cr

2 Glaucous Gulls

Glaucous Gull at Bradford Beach on Milwaukee’s Lakefront November 14, 2014

I birded a good portion of the lakefront in Milwaukee this morning. The second time I checked out Bradford Beach I spotted a very large gull with some Ring-billed Gulls, it was an adult Glaucous Gull. Not your everyday gull on the lakefront, but we do see a few during the winter months. I had hit that beach earlier in the morning and it was empty. These gulls are always moving around. Off the shorelines were some Bufflehead, Scaups, American Coots, Red-breasted Mergansers, Horned Grebes along with the usually Mallards. About 15 American Robins were eating berries off the trees just south of the entrance to Bradford Beach parking lot. Bruce joined me for some shooting of the Glaucous Gull. It was a cold morning, overcast with a stiff wind, sure felt like winter. Images were taken on November 14, 2014.

_rIMG_2013_cr

Glaucous Gull

Binomial name: Larus hyperboreus

Category: Gulls, Terns, and Skimmers

Size: 27” long, 60” wing span

Weight: 3.1 lb

Habitat: This large gulls breeding grounds are in the northern arctic. It spends its winters farther north than most gulls on coasts, lakes, urban areas, dumps and agricultural fields. Mostly breeds along shorelines of the seacoast, rivers and lakes, also refuse dumps. These gulls are usually not found inland.

Diet: It captures prey such as plovers, small ducks, ptarmigans, auks, birds, small mammals and invertebrates. It also scavenges dead fish, carrion, garbage and dead animal matter.

Nesting: The nest is a shallow bowl constructed of twigs, grasses, sedges, moss and sometimes feathers. The nest is located on cliff edges, grass slopes above cliffs, islands or ponds on the tundra. 3 eggs are usually laid brown in color with dark brown spots.

Glaucous Gull  with a Herring Gull behind and Ring-billed Gulls all around.

Glaucous Gull with a Herring Gull behind and mostly Ring-billed Gulls all around.

Glaucous Gull with the Ring-billed Gulls.

Glaucous Gull with the Ring-billed Gulls.

_rIMG_2051_cr

_rIMG_2011_cr

_rIMG_1341_cr

_rIMG_1342_cr

_rIMG_1348_cr

_rIMG_1349_cr

_rIMG_1359_cr

_rIMG_1370_cr

_rIMG_1371_cr

_rIMG_1458_cr

_rIMG_1465_cr

_rIMG_1538_cr

_rIMG_1621_cr

_rIMG_1634_cr

With fish below

_rIMG_1655_cr

Eating with fish below

_rIMG_1663_cr

Eating with fish below

_rIMG_1786_cr

Fish below

Eating the fish

Eating the fish

Eating the fish

Eating the fish

_rIMG_1865_cr

Eating the fish

Eating the fish

_rIMG_1888_cr

Eating the fish

Eating the fish

Eating the fish

_rIMG_1992_cr

_rIMG_2002_cr

Glaucous Gull Milwaukee Lakefront December 4, 2012

Glaucous Gull Milwaukee Lakefront December 4, 2012

Glaucous Gull Milwaukee Lakefront December 4, 2012

Glaucous Gull Milwaukee Lakefront December 4, 2012

Glaucous Gull Milwaukee Lakefront December 4, 2012

Glaucous Gull Milwaukee Lakefront December 4, 2012

Glaucous Gull North Point Sheboygan Wisconsin November 21, 2011

Glaucous Gull North Point Sheboygan Wisconsin November 21, 2011

Glaucous Gull North Point Sheboygan Wisconsin November 21, 2011

Glaucous Gull North Point Sheboygan Wisconsin November 21, 2011

Glaucous Gull North Point Sheboygan Wisconsin November 21, 2011

Glaucous Gull North Point Sheboygan Wisconsin November 21, 2011

Glaucous Gull North Point Sheboygan Wisconsin November 21, 2011

Glaucous Gull North Point Sheboygan Wisconsin November 21, 2011

grxxIMG_9344_cr

Glaucous Gull North Point Sheboygan Wisconsin November 21, 2011

Glaucous Gull North Point Sheboygan Wisconsin November 21, 2011

Glaucous Gull North Point Sheboygan Wisconsin November 21, 2011

Glaucous Gull North Point Sheboygan Wisconsin November 21, 2011

Glaucous Gull North Point Sheboygan Wisconsin November 21, 2011

Glaucous Gull at McKinley Beach on Milwaukee’s Lakefront October 9, 2014

I read the report of the Glaucous Gull at McKinley Beach on Milwaukee’s lakefront yesterday. I headed down to the lakefront this morning with hopes it was still present. It was and it gave nice views. This bird is said to be a 2nd cycle, born in summer of 2013. This was not a life bird for me but I wanted to see this bird. It was feeding on and off while I was there on a dead fish and kept Herring Gulls away some of the time from its meal. A few of this gulls are found throughout the US during migration. It took to the water a few times too as some tourists came by to the beach area. A beautiful gull I will say! The Glaucous Gull made Ring-billed Gulls look small. Thanks to Rita W. for getting the report of this bird out as she found it. Thanks to Jym M for confirming and posting this bird too.

_rIMG_7940_cr

Glaucous Gull

Binomial name: Larus hyperboreus

Category: Gulls, Terns, and Skimmers

Size: 27” long, 60” wing span

Weight: 3.1 lb

Habitat: This large gulls breeding grounds are in the northern arctic. It spends its winters farther north than most gulls on coasts, lakes, urban areas, dumps and agricultural fields. Mostly breeds along shorelines of the seacoast, rivers and lakes, also refuse dumps. These gulls are usually not found inland.

Diet: It captures prey such as plovers, small ducks, ptarmigans, auks, birds, small mammals and invertebrates. It also scavenges dead fish, carrion, garbage and dead animal matter.

Nesting: The nest is a shallow bowl constructed of twigs, grasses, sedges, moss and sometimes feathers. The nest is located on cliff edges, grass slopes above cliffs, islands or ponds on the tundra. 3 eggs are usually laid brown in color with dark brown spots.

_rIMG_7939_cr

_rIMG_7409_cr

_rIMG_7278_cr

Herring Gull front, Glaucous Gull back

_rIMG_7349_cr

_rIMG_7412_cr

_rIMG_7187_cr

Preening

_rIMG_7204_cr

Preening

_rIMG_7727_cr

Glaucous Gull front, Herring Gull back with Ring-billed Gulls background, front center and right side.

_rIMG_8020_cr

_rIMG_8018_cr

Glaucous Gull in the front with Ring-billed Gulls in the background.

_rIMG_6716_cr

_rIMG_6698_cr

_rIMG_6651_cr

_rIMG_7975_cr

Standing on its meal!

_rIMG_7976_cr

Standing on its meal!

_rIMG_7501_cr

Taking a bite!

_rIMG_7919_cr

____rsrIMG_8409_cr

_rIMG_8416_cr

Glaucous Gull with Ring-billed Gulls all around.

_rIMG_8449_cr

Taking a rest when I left the beach!

Bonaparte’s Gull North Point and Laughing Gull Port Washington June 10, 2014

The Bonaparte’s Gull were plentiful at North Point in Sheboygan Wisconsin along with my previous post of the presence of the Little Gulls there. I also made a stop at the Port Washington Harbor and got distant views of the reported Laughing Gull. I view the gull from the Coal Dock Park there and almost missed it as it was way out on the side of a stone wall near the water. Some of the other species present at North Point in Sheboygan were 5 American White Pelicans and 10 Caspian Terns. To my understanding the Bonaparte’s are adults with the dark solid black hood and anything less of solid black is a 1st summer. Correct me if I am wrong, thank you! Images were taken on June 10, 2014.

_rbIMG_4180_cr

Bonaparte’s Gull – adult

Bonaparte’s Gull

Binomial name: Larus philadelphia

Category: Gulls, Terns, and Skimmers

Size: 13.5” long, 33” wing span

Weight: 7 oz.

Habitat: Typically breeds near bogs or on lakes in coniferous forests in western Canada and Alaska. The Bonaparte’s spend winters on lakes, marshes bays and beach areas on coasts.

Diet: Small fish, aquatic insects and large invertebrates

Nesting: The open cup nest usually found in a tree but sometimes on the ground. The nest is constructed of sticks, small branches, tree bark and lined with lichens and moss material. Clutch size is 1-4 eggs that are greenish with dark spots on blotches.

Cool facts: The Bonaparte’s Gull is the only gull that commonly nests in a tree. The only gull smaller than the Bonaparte’s is the Little Gull. Often catches flying insects on their wings during the breeding season.

Bonapart'e Gull - adult

Bonaparte’s Gull – adult

Bonapart'e Gull - adult

Bonaparte’s Gull – adult

Bonapart'e Gull - adult

Bonaparte’s Gull – adult

Laughing Gull - adult

Laughing Gull – adult

Laughing Gull - adult

Laughing Gull – adult

Bonapart'e Gull - 1st summer

Bonaparte’s Gull – 1st summer

Bonapart'e Gull - 1st summer

Bonaparte’s Gull – 1st summer

Bonapart'e Gull - 1st summer

Bonaparte’s Gull – 1st summer

Bonapart'e Gull - 1st summer

Bonaparte’s Gull – 1st summer

Bonapart'e Gull - 1st summer

Bonaparte’s Gull – 1st summer

Bonapart'e Gull - 1st summer

Bonaparte’s Gull – 1st summer

Bonapart'e Gull - 1st summer

Bonaparte’s Gull – 1st summer

Bonapart'e Gull - 1st summer

Bonaparte’s Gull – 1st summer

Bonapart'e Gull - 1st summer

Bonaparte’s Gull – 1st summer

Bonaparte's Gull - 1st summer

Bonaparte’s Gull – 1st summer

Bonaparte's Gull - 1st summer

Bonaparte’s Gull – 1st summer

Bonaparte's Gull - 1st summer

Bonaparte’s Gull – 1st summer

Bonaparte's Gull - 1st summer

Bonaparte’s Gull – 1st summer

Bonaparte's Gull - 1st summer

Bonaparte’s Gull – 1st summer

Bonaparte's Gull - adult

Bonaparte’s Gull – adult

Bonaparte's Gull - adult

Bonaparte’s Gull – adult

Bonaparte's Gull - adult

Bonaparte’s Gull – adult

Bonaparte's Gull - adult front right, Bonaparte's Gull 1st summer back left

Bonaparte’s Gull – adult front right, Bonaparte’s Gull 1st summer back left

Bonaparte's Gull - adult

Bonaparte’s Gull – adult

Bonaparte's Gull - adult

Bonaparte’s Gull – adult

Bonaparte's Gull - in flight!

Bonaparte’s Gull – in flight!

Bonaparte's Gull - in flight!

Bonaparte’s Gull – in flight!

Bonaparte's Gull - 1st summer

Bonaparte’s Gull – 1st summer

Bonaparte's Gull - 1st summer

Bonaparte’s Gull – 1st summer

Bonaparte's Gull - 1st summer

Bonaparte’s Gull – 1st summer

Bonaparte's Gull - 1st summer

Bonaparte’s Gull – 1st summer

Bonaparte's Gull - 1st summer

Bonaparte’s Gull – 1st summer

Bonaparte's Gull - 1st summer

Bonaparte’s Gull – 1st summer

Bonaparte's Gull - 1st summer

Bonaparte’s Gull – 1st summer

Bonaparte's Gull - 1st summer

Bonaparte’s Gull – 1st summer

Bonaparte's Gull - 1st summer

Bonaparte’s Gull – 1st summer

Bonaparte's Gull - 1st summer

Bonaparte’s Gull – 1st summer

Bonaparte's Gull - 1st summer

Bonaparte’s Gull – 1st summer

Bonaparte's Gull - 1st summer

Bonaparte’s Gull – 1st summer

Bonaparte's Gull - 1st summer

Bonaparte’s Gull – 1st summer

Bonaparte's Gull - 1st summer

Bonaparte’s Gull – 1st summer

Bonaparte's Gull - 1st summer

Bonaparte’s Gull – 1st summer

American White Pelicans - North Point Sheboygan

American White Pelicans – North Point Sheboygan

American White Pelicans - North Point Sheboygan

American White Pelicans – North Point Sheboygan

Caspian Tern

Caspian Tern

Little Gulls at North Point Sheboygan Wisconsin June 10, 2014

I decided to make a run up to North Point in Sheboygan Wisconsin to see what gulls were hanging out. There have been some nice gull species reported and I was not let down. Literally 1,000’s of them with 2 Little Gulls – 1st summer, being the highlight for the day as we know they are not very common. Other gull species, 100’s of Bonaparte’s, along with the common Herring and Ring-billed gulls. I witnessed a confrontation with the 2 Little Gulls which was very exciting. The early morning sunlight  gave some beautiful color to these birds. Images were taken on June 10, 2014.

_rIMG_3458_cr

Little Gull

Binomial name: Larus minutus

Category: Gulls, Terns, and Skimmers

Size: 11” long, 24” wing span

Weight: 4.2 oz.

Habitat: Typically breeds in shallow freshwater marshes and wetlands. Natural range is Central Europe east to southern Siberia. It is common to winter in small numbers along the east coast of North America and on the Great Lakes.

Diet: Small fish, aquatic insects and invertebrates

Nesting: A nest is built among marsh vegetation lined with grass and leaves. 2-6 eggs are laid olive-brown in color with dark spots.

Cool facts: Smallest gull in the world that is often found hanging out with the Bonaparte’s Gull.

Little Gull - 1st summer

Little Gull - 1st summer

Little Gull in front, Bonaparte's Gull behind.

Little Gull in front, Bonaparte’s Gull behind.

Little Gull - 1st summer

Little Gull - 1st summer

Stretching

Little Gull - 1st summer, stretching

Stretching

Little Gull - 1st summer, at takeoff!

Takeoff!

 

Little Gull - 1st summer

Little Gull in front, Bonaparte's Gull behind.

Little Gull in front, Bonaparte’s Gull behind.

Little Gull left, Ring-billed Gull middle, Bonaparte's Gull right.

Little Gull left, Ring-billed Gull middle, Bonaparte’s Gull right.

Little Gull right, Bonaparte's Gull left.

Little Gull right, Bonaparte’s Gull left.

2 Little Gulls in confrontation!

2 Little Gulls in confrontation.

2 Little Gulls in confrontation!

2 Little Gulls in confrontation.

2 Little Gulls in confrontation.

2 Little Gulls in confrontation.

2 Little Gulls in confrontation.

2 Little Gulls in confrontation.

2 Little Gulls in confrontation.

2 Little Gulls in confrontation.

Resolved!

Resolved!

Landing!

Landing!

_rIMG_3857_cr

_rIMG_3806_cr

_rIMG_3790_cr

_rIMG_4505_cr

Stretching!

Stretching!

_rIMG_4613_cr

_rIMG_4628_cr

_rIMG_4552_cr

_rIMG_4568_cr

Going down!

Going down!

_rIMG_4627_cr

_rIMG_4657_cr

Little Gull right-front, Bonaparte's Gull left and in back

Little Gull right-front, Bonaparte’s Gull left and in back.

Little Gull right-front, Bonaparte's Gull left and in back.

Little Gull right-front, Bonaparte’s Gull left and in back.

Landing!

Landing!

Takeoff!

Takeoff!

Caspian Tern

I birded the Milwaukee lakefront this morning for a short period of time. The highlight was Caspian Terns. There were a small amount present on Bradford Beach sitting with many Ring-billed Gulls. There were also a small group of them fishing for food over at McKinley Marina. 5 Black-crowned Night-Herons were on the east side of the Veterans Park Lagoon, and recent ducks that have been reported are still present. I observed many large flocks of Double-crested Cormorants flying north far out over the water, and some flocks very high up over the shoreline. Beautiful morning to be out with lots of sunshine, but the steady northeast winds made it almost feel like winter. Photographs were taken on April 26, 2014 on the  lakefront in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

____caspian ternrIMG_2935_cr

Caspian Tern

Binomial name: Sterna caspia

Category: Gulls, Terns, and Skimmers

Size: 21” long, 50” wing span

Weight: 1.4 lbs.

Habitat: Main breeding habitats are large lakes, ocean coasts, river and barrier islands and marsh in salt water in the Northwestern US and scattered places though out Canada.

Diet: Mainly fish but have been known to also eat large insects and crayfish.

Nesting: They typically nest in colonies. The nest is nothing more than a shallow scrape on the ground made of shell parts, dried plant material and pebbles located in sand or gravel. The rim of the nest may also be topped off with sticks. 1-3 buff eggs are laid which both sexes incubate and they also both care for the young.

Cool Facts: Largest tern in the world. Caspian Terns winter in parts of the southern US and Mexico, some are permanent residents on the California coast. This species flies over the water searching for food. When they locate their food, they plunge straight down into the water to get it. Sometimes they remain under the water for seconds, looks as if they have disappeared. Then they just take flight right out from under the water, pretty amazing!

___rc26IMG_2934_cr

___rc26IMG_3416_cr

Fish in mouth!

___rc26IMG_3139_cr

___rc26IMG_3142_cr

Hunting for food.

___rIMG_2926_cr

___rc26IMG_3751_cr

Ring-billed Gull chasing the Caspian Tern

___rc26IMG_3774_cr

___rc26IMG_3330_cr

Caspian Tern - Racine North Beach April 30, 2013

Caspian Tern – Racine North Beach April 30, 2013

Caspian Tern - Racine North Beach April 30, 2013

Caspian Terns – Racine North Beach April 30, 2013

Caspian Tern - Racine North Beach April 30, 2013

Caspian Terns – Racine North Beach April 30, 2013

Caspian Tern with a Forster's Tern (right front) - Racine North Beach April 30, 2013

Caspian Terns with a Forster’s Tern (right front) – Racine North Beach April 30, 2013

Forster's Tern - Horicon Marsh May 5, 2010

Forster’s Tern – Horicon Marsh May 5, 2010

Forster's Tern - Horicon Marsh May 5, 2010

Forster’s Tern – Horicon Marsh May 5, 2010

Great Black-backed Gull

Great Black-backed Gull.  Photographs taken at Wind Point and Shoop Park in Racine County, Wisconsin on November 30, 2013.

Great Black-backed Gull

Great Black-backed Gull

Binomial name: Larus marinus

Category: Gulls, Terns, and Skimmers

Description: The largest member of the gull family.  White feathers with grayish-black backs and wings.  The wings have white wingtips.  Pink legs, strong yellow or pinkish-yellow bill.

Size: 25” – 31” long, 4’ 10” – 5’ 7” wingspan

Weight: 1.7 lbs. – 5.1 lbs.

Habitat: Rocky and sandy coastal shorelines, ponds, lakes, and marshes

Diet: 50% or more of their diet is often garbage or human refuse.  They also eat fish, insects, crabs, smaller birds, chick eggs, and land animals such as rats.

Nesting: Both parents build several nests on or near stacks of rocks or fallen logs. The female chooses the best one, and it is lined with grass, seaweed, and other vegetation or garbage such as rope and pieces of plastic.  The female will lay a clutch of 3 eggs and both parents incubate them for about 28 days.  Both parents raise the hatchlings, take turns finding food.  The breeding pair will reuse the same nesting site year after year.

Notes: Great Black-backed Gull feathers were used in clothing while feathers were fashionable in the late 1800’s.  Once the trend ended, populations began to increase.  This trend continues with the increase in refuse sites across North America and Europe.

Great Black-backed Gull

Great Black-backed Gull

Great Black-backed Gull

Great Black-backed Gull

Great Black-backed Gull

Great Black-backed Gull

Great Black-backed Gull

Great Black-backed Gull

Great Black-backed Gull

To view the gallery of images, please click here.

Horicon Marsh, WI July 29, 2013

Photographs from Horicon Marsh, Fond du lac/Dodge County, Wisconsin taken July 29, 2013.

Black-crowned Night Heron

Black-crowned Night Heron

Black-crowned Night Heron

Black-crowned Night Heron

Baby Common Moorhen

Baby Common Moorhen

Juvenile American White Pelicans

Juvenile American White Pelicans

Juvenile American White Pelicans

Juvenile American White Pelicans

Juvenile American White Pelicans

Juvenile American White Pelicans

Juvenile American White Pelican

Juvenile American White Pelican

Juvenile Black Tern

Juvenile Black Tern

Great Egret

Great Egret

Great Egret

Great Egret

To view the full gallery of images, please click here.

Laughing Gull

Photographs taken in North Point, Sheboygan, WI, on June 17, 2013.

Laughing Gull

Laughing Gull

Binomial name: Leucophaeus atricilla

Category: Gulls, Terns, and Skimmers

Description: White body with dark gray back and wings with a black head.  In the winter, the black head will fade to white.  Dark red bill and legs.

Size: 14” – 16” long, 39” – 43” wingspan

Weight: 7 oz. – 13 oz.

Habitat: Coastal shorelines, beaches, ponds, and marshes

Diet: Insects, earthworms, snails, fish, squid, crabs, berries, garbage

Nesting: They nest in large colonies (up to 50,000 birds) on beaches or other shorelines.  The nest is made of grasses and is usually built on the ground (or on rocks or dead plant materials) by both the male and female.  Sometimes the male will build a nest in hopes of attracting a suitable breeding partner.  The female will lay 1 brood per season with 3-4 eggs.  She will incubate the eggs for 21 days.

Notes: The name “laughing gull” comes from its call which sounds like a high-pitched laugh.

Laughing Gull

Laughing Gull

Laughing Gull

Laughing Gull

Laughing Gull

Laughing Gull

To view the full gallery of images, please click here.