I want to apologize to all my fellow birders for the late notice of the Gull-billed Tern. I headed to Four Rivers this morning hoping to pick up some first of year birds. I have been there twice already this week to add the Snowy Plover, and the birding had been a little slow. I was also not feeling well and did not have my usual enthusiasm.
This morning was completely different. We had a little rain last night and this morning the wind picked up right away. The water had been drawn down in the pools 2 and 3 creating fantastic mudflat habitat. There were thousands of shorebirds along with wading birds and terns. I had a limited amount of time to bird as I had a commitment and had to home by noon. I started picking through the shorebirds.
After about an hour I noticed a Least Tern that had not flown off with the Forster's and Black Terns. A little later, I noticed another Tern in Pool 2B. I thought it might be another Forster's or Common Tern. I snapped some photos, noticing that it was an adult with a dark bill. The bird flew and I snapped a few more photos. I decided I would wait to look at them at home and hurriedly continued my route, wishing I had more time to stay and bird the whole day here.
BIG MISTAKE! I didn't look at my photos until I returned home from my commitment. As soon as I looked at them on my computer, I knew it was a Gull-billed Tern.
This is the reason for my apology. I started notifying folks right away to let them know what I thought I had. I always want to share the birds I find with others, especially the rarities. Hopefully, you all won't think too negatively of me. I can only hope now the bird sticks another day.
Best,
Kelly Ormesher
Dade County
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The Missouri Birding Society's Wild Bird Discussion Forum
