Sighting Record for Utah

Common name:	Western Gull
Scientific name:	Larus occidentalis
Date:	April 18, 2024
Time:	8:20 a.m.
Length of time observed:	8 minutes
Number:	1
Age:	adult
Sex:	N/A
Location:	Sand Hollow State Park, Hurricane, Utah
County:	Washington
Latilong:	Latitude 37degrees 06'60.00" N Longitude -113 degree 22'59.99" W
Elevation:	2986 feet
Distance to bird:	approximately 60 yards
Optical equipment:	Swarovski 8.5 x 42 binoculars, friends spotting scope (unknown power and make)
Weather:	48 degree Fahrenheit, approx. 20 mph wind
Light Conditions:	partly sunny
Description: Size of bird:	very obviously the largest gull at the beach. There were California and Ring-billed gulls near by and he was much bigger.
(Description:) Basic Shape:	heavy and bulky looking with a rather short, stocky looking neckneck
(Description:) Overall Pattern:	dark backed
(Description:) Bill Type:	heavy bill, slightly downturned at the end. Pink round dot near the end of lower bill
(Description:) Field Marks and Identifying Characteristics:	The most obvious things we noticed right off were it's large size, dark back, heavy yellow bill with a pink dot, and very noticeable PINK LEGS. Light colored iris, with orange orbital ring. (see photos)
Song or call & method of delivery:	None heard
Behavior:	He was standing very still near the water's edge and wasn't feeding or moving much.
Habitat:	Red sand beach of fresh water reservoir
Similar species and how were they eliminated:	Yellow footed gull, but even more out of range for Utah and has yellow legs. Lesser black-backed gull, too small, and yellow legs. Slaty-backed Gull even more out of range, and didn't look quite right.
Previous experience with this & similar species:	I would consider myself and intermediate birder and I have been and enthusiast for many years.
References consulted:	Sibley's field guide, Merlin bird ID
Description from:	From memory From photo(s) taken at the time of the sighting
Observer:	Natalie Tanner
Observer's address:	750 S. Nebo Circle
Observer's e-mail address:	**
Other observers who independently identified this bird:	Steve and Cindy Sommerfield. They were the first to spot it and it was their scope we used. They are very experienced, advanced birders. They knew immediately it was a Gull that had never been seen in the County. They live nearby and frequent Sand Hollow regularly. Unfortunately the bird flew after our good several minutes of observation and photos and I don't think anyone else saw it.
Date prepared:
Additional material:	Photos
Additional comments: