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I don't know what type of gull/bird this is.  I just haven't taken the time to research him yet, so if anyone knows, I'd be glad for the info.  I took this in Carlsbad, CA, if that helps for identification purposes.  I really like the lighting on this guy/gal.  I lightened the dark side of his face slightly, but preferred it darker.  I would have perhaps liked it a bit better with more DOF to get his eye and big beak sharp.  No time for a second shot, though.  I am happy with it nonetheless.  Hope you like it, too. 

Two guesses...a California Gull (a juvenile) or a Heermann's Gull (also juvenile).  If you had a side view of the bill/beak or some more of the plumage, we could probably tell.

My "Birds of San Diego" book has been a great purchase!

Cute shot, BTW!

In His Grip,
Kevin

Ya, I figured he was young because of his mottled gray coloring.  I guess I had a blonde moment because I thought my big bird book was just northwest, but it turns out it's western region so it has CA birds.  (mine is the Audubon Field Guide to Birds)

I found a shot with a different angle and he's got pink feet.  That would rule out Heermann's.  His plumage is also more of a brownish than the neck appears, which is more of a gray.  It could be a Herring Gull.  He lacks the black of an imm Western Gull. 

Hmmm.  More research required.  Some of the descriptions are so similar that I may not be able to identify the exact gull type.  If I had a recording of the noises it makes, that may have helped.  Who knows.

Thanks for your comments and help. 

I don't know what kind of gull he is. BUT he seems to be saying "you called me?"  or something of that sort!