Posted by Paul Bithorn on January 06, 2004 at 16:34:12:
In Reply to: Jaeger off Key Largo posted by Roberto on January 05, 2004 at 11:43:03:
While not purporting to be an expert in the identification of jaegers, I'll bet ya' a dollar to a donut that you probably saw a Pomarine Jaeger. In migration off the Atlantic Coast of Florida, Pomarines outnumber Parasitics 3-to-1.
Having fished offshore in the Florida Keys, Marquesas and Dry Tortugas on several occasions, during the winter months,I have yet to see a Parasitic. Size comparison can be difficult, the Pomarine being Ring-billed size and the Parasitic being Laughing Gull sized one thing that stands ou is the barrel-chested look of the Pomarine making it seem pretty big as you staed in your post. The Parasitic is sleeker and more falconlike. If you keyed in on the tail the Pomarine's are broad and twisted, projecting 2 to 7 inches, while the Parastic's are pointed, projecting 1/2 to 3 1/2 inches. I hope this helps. Life is good............. as I will be fishing offshore in the Keys next Thursday and hopefully be able further hone the challenge of seperating this enigmatic species identification.