Great Black-backed Gull and others, Summit County

[Jack Bushong]

Hi all, 

Dillon Reservoir is still ~60% open, so after a morning of snowshoeing, I decided to scope the north end of the reservoir for any lingering waterbirds. Much to my surprise, the area around the Dillon Marina was full (by Summit County standards) of ducks and gulls. A flock of gulls loafing on an ice shelf near the marina included an unusual late-season congregation of 79 California Gulls, a smattering of Ring-billed Gulls, an Iceland Gull, and an adult Great Black-backed Gull. Also in the vicinity was a Pacific Loon, Greater Scaup, Barrows x Common Goldeneye, and several dozen pure Barrows. I only scanned a portion of the open water on Dillon Reservoir before the light faded. I wouldn't be surprised if there's something else unusual out there like a late Common Loon, Long-tailed Duck, or scoter. 

Good birding, 

Jack Bushong, 

Louisville, CO/Hanover, NH