Saunders's Tern
Saunders's Tern
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Saunders's Tern is a small coastal tern, closely related to the Little Tern, characterized by its black cap, yellow bill, and light grey upperparts. It inhabits the shores of the Indian Ocean, often found in sheltered bays and estuaries. This species is an agile flyer and diver.
Where to spot
Found along the coasts of the Arabian Peninsula, Persian Gulf, Red Sea, and East Africa, extending to India and Sri Lanka. Prefers sandy beaches, mudflats, and sheltered lagoons.
How to spot
Look for its small size, black cap, white forehead, yellow bill with a black tip, and white underparts. Pay attention to subtle differences in primary feather patterns to distinguish it from similar small terns. Observe its hovering flight before plunge-diving for small fish.
When to spot
Resident year-round in much of its range, though some populations may undertake local migrations. Breeding typically occurs from April to July. Best observed during daylight hours when foraging along the coast.
Where to spot
Found along the coasts of the Arabian Peninsula, Persian Gulf, Red Sea, and East Africa, extending to India and Sri Lanka. Prefers sandy beaches, mudflats, and sheltered lagoons.
How to spot
Look for its small size, black cap, white forehead, yellow bill with a black tip, and white underparts. Pay attention to subtle differences in primary feather patterns to distinguish it from similar small terns. Observe its hovering flight before plunge-diving for small fish.
When to spot
Resident year-round in much of its range, though some populations may undertake local migrations. Breeding typically occurs from April to July. Best observed during daylight hours when foraging along the coast.
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Saunders's Tern can be very difficult to distinguish from the Little Tern, with subtle differences in plumage, bill color, and wing patterns being key identification points.
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