This bird is cool.

I think some experts might call this a ‘presumed 4th cycle’. This bird is almost completely adult-like except for a few of its greater coverts and possibly some of its tertials. Also compare the relatively small amount of white in the wingtips compared to the ‘typical’ adult in img 6. So, I think the theory is that this bird is either a super advanced 3rd cycle bird or is in its 4th cycle but hasn’t quite achieved a definitive plumage.

Enter individual variation. Lots of birds just don't fit what you find in the field guides.

Virginia Beach VA
February 2011