Two subspecies are present in BC:
1) L.c.brachyrhynchus
2) L.c.kamtschatschensis
Mew [Kamchatka] Gull Larus canus kamtschatschensis
The identification of individuals that have been identified as belonging to this large Siberian subspecies of Mew Gull is highly contentious due to the similarity of the two subspecies as well as an incomplete understanding of the identification of kamtschatschensis in North America. Nonetheless, several photographed birds show size, structural, and plumage characteristics that strongly suggest kamtschatschensis, and these individuals are included here. It is highly possible that this subspecies occurs more frequently (perhaps even annually) in British Columbia but has been overlooked due to its similarity to the North American subspecies of Mew Gull.
1.(1) immature (2nd-winter); March 29, 2003; Vernon
2.(1) immature (2nd-winter); October 14 & 28, 2007; Jordan River
(1) immature (2nd-winter); January 1, 2008; Gordon’s Beach, northwest of Sooke (pres. same individual)
Note Authors: Rick Toochin and Jamie Fenneman
