Soar Loser: Seagull Masters Elba's Thermals

This opportunistic aerial acrobat demonstrates textbook seagull form against Elba's brilliant azure backdrop, wings fully extended in perfect gliding configuration. The black wingtip markings and orange beak identify this as likely a Yellow-legged Gull, executing effortless flight maneuvers that would make aerospace engineers weep with envy. Those outstretched wings catch Mediterranean thermals rising from sun-warmed coastal rocks, allowing for energy-efficient soaring while scanning below for tourist snacks or unguarded gelato. The pristine blue sky provides dramatic contrast against white and gray plumage, creating nature's own studio lighting setup. Seagulls have perfected the art of looking majestic while being complete opportunistic trash pandas of the avian world. The 200mm zoom on my SONY RX100M7 at f/5.6, 1/500s froze this graceful moment mid-flight, proving these coastal scavengers possess serious aerodynamic credentials despite their questionable dietary choices.

Location

📍 Portoferraio, Livorno, Italy