California Gull (Larus californicus), Gilbert Water Ranch, Maricopa County

California Gull is generally rare in Arizona away from the Colorado River Valley and even then usually only shows up at large reservoirs.  It was therefore quite a surprise when 12 gulls, four California and 8 Ring-billed, flew over the Gilbert Water Ranch on 23 May 2008.  Their appearance may have been storm related as a strong cold front with strong southerly winds had just passed.  Only two of the California Gulls stopped and the remainder of the flock kept moving.  This advanced first cycle California Gull was one of the two that stopped (wingtips of the other bird in nearly identical plumage can be seen at right) and was photographed by Michael Moore on 23 May 2008 at Pond 7 of the Gilbert Water Ranch. 

23 May 2008, photo by Michael Moore