Mew Gull, Somerset Co., NJ, Jan. 3, 2017 (photo by Jeff Ellerbusch)
(Click on the photo for a larger image.)
When you’re hot, you’re hot. Somerset County is sizzling right now with Rock Wren, Pink-footed Goose, Greater White-fronted Goose, Sandhill Cranes and today: a Mew Gull, Larus canus.
Jeff Ellerbusch observed the gull and captured photos of what should be the second record of Mew Gull in New Jersey if accepted by the New Jersey Bird Record Committee. This is a stunning find among 900 Ring-billed Gulls on a rainy afternoon on Opie Road in Hillsborough Township.
Mew Gull, Somerset Co., NJ, Jan. 3, 2017 (photo by Jeff Ellerbusch)
The Mew Gull was observed from 4:26-4:30 PM when all the gulls, including single Herring and Lesser Black-backed Gulls, flew off towards the northeast to an unknown roost site. The sighting happened so quickly that flight shots were unable to be obtained. This means identifying this gull to sub-species may prove difficult if not impossible.
Gulls are known to form concentrations on Opie Road. This one was in the western fields. The wet weather may also account for the large number of gulls seen here the past few days. There is no guarantee the same number of gulls, including the Mew Gull, will return Wednesday or any other day as their appearances here are unpredictable.
Mew Gull, Somerset Co., NJ, Jan. 3, 2017 (photo by Jeff Ellerbusch)
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Finis
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Gulls feed on flooded out worms in ag fields and urban ballfields around me after the rain.
Hey Jonathan – Giving props to Jeff E. and his great find and fast camera instincts. NJ’s 1st record of Mew Gull was a one day wonder despite much scrutiny of Gull flocks thereafter.Gull flocks are constantly in transition in the winter. I think I ‘OWE’ Jeff about 15 species that he has added to my Somerset list….Mike H.
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