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Caspian Tern

Sterna caspia ORDER: CHARADRIIFORMES FAMILY: LARIDAE

IUCN Conservation Status: Least Concern

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As large as a big gull, the Caspian Tern is the largest tern in the world. Its large coral red bill makes it one of the most easily identified terns throughout its worldwide range.

Come watch nesting birds at Nestcams.org

Appearance

Gull-like
Gull-like
Typical Voice

Adult Description

  • Large, gull-like tern.
  • Black cap.
  • Body white.
  • Bill large, thick, and brilliant red with dark tip.

Immature Description

Juvenile has blackish crown, black edging to back feathers.

Range Map Help

Caspian Tern Range Map
View dynamic map of eBird sightings

Field MarksHelp

  • Adult nonbreeding
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    Adult nonbreeding
    • © Kevin T. Karlson
  • Juvenile
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    Juvenile
    • © Kevin T. Karlson
  • Adult breeding
    PopOutZoom In
    Adult breeding
    • Very large tern with short tail
    • Very thick, deep-red bill, typically with black at tip
    • Dark undersides to the tips of the wings
    • Breeding adult has fully black, glossy cap
    • © France Dewaghe, Delaware City, Delaware, August 2006

Similar Species

  • Larger and more robust than other terns. Pointed red bill and black cap distinguishes it from gulls.
  • Royal Tern thinner with thinner wings, has thinner more pointed orange or orange-red bill, more deeply notched tail, and outside of the breeding season, an extensive white forehead.