[Slaty-backed Gull]

Higgs Beach, Key West, FL, September, 2002.

This photo shows the characteristic wing pattern of the Slaty-backed, which is especially visible on the left wing. Notice the white tongues between the gray and black areas. Due to primarly molt, the outer (two?) primaries are not visible.

There's still a dark tail feather or two, indicating that this bird has almost reached adult plumage. It seems to be a fourth-winter bird.