I met up with Julie & Ken Davis and Jason Larson at Hoover today around 4:30 and we searched until dark for the Franklin's gulls but could not locate them.  We did observe two Caspian and a Common Tern.  I also spotted a bold black M pattern on one gull and was hoping for a kittiwake, but when it landed nearby we noticed the small size and pink legs- but it looked odd for a Bonapartes and we tried for a few minutes to turn it into a Little Gull (somewhat dark carpal bar, solid black bill, dark cap and nape, very bold black M pattern, who knows?).  If any of my pics turn out I'll post them for other opinions.

I did find an American Avocet (after the others gave up on the gull) just northwest of the Sunbury Road bridge over the reservoir.  You can park on the southwest side of the bridge in a gravel parking lot and carefully cross the road and observe from the road shoulder (be careful!).  It was close enough to not need a scope, but if you want to scan the gulls (which are often farther away) a scope is helpful.

If anyone relocates the Franklin's tomorrow I would REALLY appreciate a phone call: 614-202-8773.  If I don't hear from anyone I'll probably just try again after work (who knows, maybe I'll find another Black-tailed gull for Bill ;-) THANKS!

Cheers,
Heather




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