Date: 11/4/24 9:48 pm From: Max Breshears via groups.io <wolfvolcanologist...> Subject: [venturacobirding] Possible Black-headed Gull - Ventura, Santa Clara River Estuary
Possible Black-headed Gull, reported on eBird as Black-headed to get the
word out. There is much discussion as to whether it is one or not, the
bill, feet and face pattern look fine for Black-headed but wing patterns
are proving puzzling. Likely better photos are needed to confirm.
Seen here: (34.23519° N, 119.25842° W)
To chase this bird I would recommend checking two locations inside the
estuary. First would be the mouth, which would probably best be scanned
with a scope. To get to the mouth I would park at the Surfers Knoll Parking
Lot and walk about a half mile south down the beach. The next area I would
check would be the backside. To enter the estuary from the backside, one
could either walk through the Ventura Settling ponds and exit out the back
trail or, what is probably much easier, park along Harbor Blvd. here
(34.23685° N, 119.25663° W) and walk down to the estuary. I recommend
wearing muck boots/clothes you feel comfortable getting wet/muddy in.
