Common Tern

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It should come as no surprise that the Common Tern (Sterna hirundo) is the most common tern found in the United States.

With a global breeding range that extends from the Arctic, south into northern climates of North American, Asia and Europe, it might be one of the most common terns world wide.

They are social breeders, that fortunately, can adapt their breeding strategy to fit a variety of inland and coastal habitats. Drastic population declines in the nineteenth century, due to the popularity of the feathers as fashion accessories, were reversed party because of protections afforded to them, partly to their adaptable breeding behavior. Their adaptability might also help them during present times as human encroachment forces them to find alternative breeding grounds.

Within their range, Common Terns can be confused with a handful of other tern species. In the United States it can be confused with the Forster's tern, however, the adult's black cap, red legs and red bill with a dark tip are usually sufficient field identification clues.

Identifying juveniles and adults with winter plumage can be a bit more difficult. The top picture shows a Common Tern with muted red legs and dark bar across the wings.

© 2009 Patricia A. Michaels