This afternoon about 4PM, my wife Denise, Jeff Harvey, and myself, recorded 4 Franklin's Gulls at the northwest end of Evans Lake. An adult Lesser Black-backed Gull was nearby the Franklin's Gulls. Large numbers of the following species were also present, Ruddy Duck, Northern Shoveler, Pied-billed Grebe, and American Coots. A pleasant surprise at the south end of the lake was 5 female Common Mergansers resting on a downed tree, in the company of Mallards. They could be some of the summer nesters from Columbiana County just to the south. I have noticed that when scanning for Franklin's Gulls, compared to the numerous Ring-billed Gulls, Franklin's appear to ride lower in the water, with their heads appearing to be in a lower posture than the back portion of their body. In my experience with them, they also always seem to be separated a short distance from the other gulls, making it easier to pick them out. Evans Lake is located in southeastern Mahoning County. To reach our sighting location, follow SR164 to Calla Road, go east to the end of the road at the lake. Park in the provided area. Scan the lake to the left toward the dam. This is part of The Heron Bay residential area; do not trespass near the homes.
 
Bob Lane / Mahoning County   

                                          
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