Long-tailed Jaeger at Lake Hartwell 08/13/2015. I first noticed the bird flying fairly close
near Big Oaks and Elrod Ferry as it flew near a mixed group of terns. Then it flew near Long Point and circled.
After that it flew higher and circled way over the lake. I lost it as it disappeared east. I attempted photos
after it was a good ways north.
Light juvenile.
Small jaeger. Size was evident against the Forster's Terns and other terns. The bird was slender with slender
wings with a white mark on underside of the primaries. Head appeared small and rounded. Bill appeared shot and
stubby. Body appeared gray to gray-brown. Head was whitish. Belly was whitish. Barring was noted on
the tail coverts.
Flight was graceful (much more
so than the Pomarine I had last week). The bird flew close by a group of terns but did not chase or harass
them. More photos were attempted, but it is doubtful they will show much detail.
- Eric
Beohm
