Third winter American Herring Gull calling, Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge, Box Elder County, UtahThird winter American Herring Gull calling – Nikon D500, f7.1, 1/3200, ISO 500, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light

Earlier this month I was able to take third winter American Herring Gull photos at Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge on the ice from the auto tour route. I only see American Herring Gulls here in northern Utah during the coldest months of the year and I consider them a winter gull treat. I saw American Herring Gulls of all ages and this morning I wanted to share images of the third winter gulls.

Third winter American Herring Gull standing on ice, Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge, Box Elder County, UtahThird winter American Herring Gull standing on ice – Nikon D500, f7.1, 1/4000, ISO 500, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light

I parked my Jeep on the shoulder of the auto tour route where I could relax and put my all of my focus on the gulls that were resting, preening, and standing on the shelf of ice. It was chilly that morning but the bright sun helped to keep me warm as I photographed the gulls and other birds in front of me.

The American Herring Gulls and other birds were congregating in this area because there was open water next to the ice shelf where food could be caught.

Third cycle American Herring Gull preening, Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge, Box Elder County, UtahThird cycle American Herring Gull preening – Nikon D500, f7.1, 1/2500, ISO 500, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light

Third winter American Herring Gulls are also considered third cycle birds which covers the time period from their second birthday to their third birthday. Third cycle American Herring Gulls look more like the adults than the first cycle American Herring Gulls I shared on January 11th. Their mantles are grayer, their eyes are light colored, and their bills are no longer dark.

Calling third cycle American Herring Gull, Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge, Box Elder County, UtahCalling third cycle American Herring Gull – Nikon D500, f7.1, 1/3200, ISO 500, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light

Some of the larger gulls that we have in North America can take several years to acquire their adult plumage and it can be challenging to not only identify the species of the gulls I photograph but to age them too. I enjoy the challenge. I wouldn’t consider myself an expert by any means but I do love learning about our gulls.

I had a great time photographing the American Herring Gulls I found at the refuge on that cold but sunny winter morning.

Life is good.

Mia

To view more of my American Herring Gull photos plus facts and information about this species click here.