Bonaparte's Gull

Well it feels long overdue, following the late winter/early spring influx of Bonaparte's Gull into the UK, but finally today one made it to the Axe, found by Ashley Grove mid afternoon.  

I was delighted to learn it was still around when I finished work, and although the light was a bit harsh I had some nice views from Coronation Corner just after 5:30pm...

That grey nape is a cracking Boney's feature - and overall such a delicate bird

Its underwings gleamed white when it fluttered its wings

And lovely pink legs!  Look how neat the black trailing edge to the wing is

I'll have to compare with the recent Fleet bird when I get more time

 

BBRC may have recently removed this species from the 'rare list', but this is only the Axe's second record following a first-summer on 30th April 2007. Almost twenty years ago - blimey!

I have seen a few other bits over the last few days, but don't have time to blog about them now.  You'll just have to check back soon to find out more...