Whiskered Tern

Overview

The whiskered tern (Chlidonias hybrida) is a member of the family Laridae and is considered the largest of the marsh terns. The species is classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.

Identification

• Plumage: Summer adults feature dark grey upper and underparts, white cheeks, and a black C-shaped band across the head; winter plumage is much paler grey with a white forehead.
• Features: Characterised by red legs and bill, and a black cap that may be flecked with white in juveniles or winter adults.
• Size: Possesses a strong bill ranging from 29–34 mm in males and 25–27 mm in females, with a short, forked-looking tail.
• Voice: Emits a characteristic krek call.

Habitat

Breeds in colonies on inland marshes, often nesting amongst black-headed gulls for protection. While tropical populations are resident, European and Asian birds migrate south to Africa and the Indian subcontinent for winter.

Diet

The species feeds on small fish, amphibians, insects, and crustaceans.

Did you know?

The specific epithet hybridus was chosen by Peter Simon Pallas because he believed the bird was a hybrid between the white-winged black tern and the common tern.