Tern, Common

Conservation status:

Rare Passage Migrant

Description:

Adult birds in spring are easy to identify from their red bill with black tip, black cap and red legs, which remain red throughout the year. The tail does not extend beyond the wing tips of standing birds. Immature birds are difficult to distinguish from immature White-cheeked terns. The Common Tern has a whitish rump, while the White-cheeked Tern has a grey rump. In winter the forehead is white. Juvenile also has white forehead. Dives with gently upward swoop, turning back and plunging.