All three scoters and a California Gull on McFaddin Beach January 13

John Mariani reports seeing all three US scoter species from McFaddin beach Sunday January 13) in a mixed flock of about 50 or 60 scoters.  He estimates about 15 Black Scoters, at least one White-winged Scoter and the rest Surf Scoters.

 He also found a California Gull on the beach among the Ring-billed.  He surmises it was from the Great Plains population since it was only marginally darker in mantle color.  The longer bill with black and red spots is a very useful field mark.  Many of those with experience with the species pick it out based on its "longer bodied longer winged" appearance.

 John A. Whittle