Standley Lake Gull Bonanza

[Ryan Bushong]

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