Date: 2/11/26 7:28 pm From: Ryan Bushong <bushongryan...> Subject: [cobirds] Standley Lake Gull Bonanza
Hi all,
Following up on a few recent reports of gulls from Standley Lake (including
a Glaucous Gull by Jack Bushong yesterday evening), I made the trip late
this evening. I encountered an absolute absurd number of gulls (spread out
across four flocks, ranging in size from 1200 to 3200 birds). I estimated
the total number of gulls on the reservoir to be around 6400 individuals.
In these flocks, I tallied 27 Lesser Black-backed Gulls, 14 Iceland Gulls,
an estimate of 125 Herring, and 3200 Ring-billed. I also could not identify
to species the largest flock which was too far out. Also, of interest, I
had a first year Glaucous-winged Gull fly by at close distance chasing an
adult LBBG. Unfortunately, I spent too much time watching the bird through
my scope and binoculars, and by the time I had my camera out the bird had
passed through towards the NE corner.
I want to get the word out as this might be the largest group of gulls I
have ever seen at one place in Colorado (outside of maybe Aurora Reservoir
years ago), and in hopes of anyone re-finding the Glaucous-winged, as well
as any other rare individuals (I'm sure there were more out there).
Hopefully more people can venture out here in the coming days. I parked
here (39°51'19.4"N 105°06'29.3"W) and walked out to here (39°51'24.2"N
105°06'33.5"W) to scan. I suggest getting here around 4:00 p.m., as it
seems the gulls really only arrive in the evening. I left at 5:32 and the
birds were still active.
Cheers, and good birding!
Ryan Bushong
Louisville, Colorado
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