All Photos Are Copyright Lyn S. Atherton
This page was last updated on 2/23/01.
Heermann's Gull - First State Record
Discovered by Pinellas Deputy Sheriff Glen Wilson on 10/24/2000 at Ft. De Soto Park, Pinellas County, Florida, this second year Heermann's Gull was found in the park area almost daily through 1/19/01. (During this time, it wandered south as far as Anna Maria Island, Manatee Co., and Longboat Key, Sarasota Co.) On 1/28, Don Stokes discovered it over 100 miles south at Sanibel Island. I subsequently viewed the videos taken by Don and, based on distinctive plumage characteristics, confirmed that it was the Heermann's from Ft. De Soto Park. The gull remained at Sanibel, at least, two more days and was photographed by Claire Postmus (fide Bev Postmus). It was not reported again until, quite surprisingly, Ranger Dan at Ft. De Soto Park reported to me that he had seen the Heermann's at the north tip of the park on 2/22. I returned to the park the following day and relocated the gull on the beach just north of the fort building. Specific plumage characteristics again confirm this Heermann's to be the same individual that appeared at Sanibel. Photos will be added ASAP. (Note that photos dated 1/8/01 were taken during rain, causing the gull to appear much grayer than in life.)
(click on thumbnails for enlargements)
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| 10/29/2000 | 10/29/2000 | 10/29/2000 | 10/29/2000 |
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| 12/10/00 | 12/10/00 | 12/10/00 | |
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| 01/08/01 | 01/08/01 |