Ring-legged gulls

Have slowly managed to build up a small catalogue of half-decent shots of the Audouin's gulls in the general area. It was a pleasant surprise to find that some of the birds are carrying leg rings. Hopefully when I get home to a decent broadband width I will be able to submit the sightings to the relevant ringing authority- I really like coming across bird research under field conditions-exciting stuff! Visible migration has stalled somewhat, with the wind swinging around to a brisk nor-westerly. 

Audouin's gulls

Just arrived on my survey vessel about 20 nm offshore Moroccco. I get occasionally views of the distant coastline through the heat haze and there is a steady succession of vessel traffic moving to and fro from the port of Agadir. 

Plenty of distant gulls to keep me occupied and the occasional close pass from a gannet or two. This morning I saw a line of 7 small shearwaters, although I could not get anything on them to even suggest an ID although I suspect balearic. Highlight so far has been great views of Audouin's gulls- the adults are particularly splendid as they fly above the ship. Hopefully I will get some better 'side-on' shots over the forthcoming days.