Black Tern

Additional Bird Information Gulls Shorebirds Types of Birds

The Black Tern (Genus Chlidonias), belongs to the larger Laridae family of terns, skimmers and gulls.

Unlike most family members, Black Terns prefer freshwater habitats as opposed to the majority of terns that prefer saltwater and coastal habitats

They are medium size and characteristically black in color during breeding season. In non-breeding season they gain more white coloration in the head and face areas.

They nest on the ground and have a varied diet of insects and aquatic organisms.

© 2006 Patricia A. Michaels