Bat-bird is back

The tail-less Common Gull flew over the garden again today with its odd bat-like flight. Seen previously here on the 8 December, I am pleased but surprised to see that it has survived at least 11 days without a tail in weather conditions that have ranged to the extreme. Maybe it is not quite such an easy target for predators as it might appear.

Although the pictures are not very clear, it does look as though the unusual flight action is putting additional strain on the integrity of the wing - the tips of the inner primaries do appear to be showing excessive signs of wear.