West African Crested Tern
West African Crested Tern
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The West African Crested Tern is a large, robust tern found along the coast of West Africa. It is characterized by its prominent shaggy black crest and heavy yellow bill. This species is closely related to the Royal Tern and shares many similarities, but is recognized as a distinct entity.
Where to spot
Endemic to the coasts of West Africa, from Mauritania south to Angola. Primarily found along sandy beaches, estuaries, and offshore islands.
How to spot
Look for its large size, shaggy black crest (breeding), bright yellow or orange-yellow bill, pale grey upperparts, and white underparts. Distinguish from Royal Tern by subtle bill and crest differences and geographical range. Observe its powerful flight and plunge-diving for fish.
When to spot
Resident year-round in its coastal range. Breeding typically occurs from May to August. Best observed during daylight hours along the coast, especially near breeding colonies.
Where to spot
Endemic to the coasts of West Africa, from Mauritania south to Angola. Primarily found along sandy beaches, estuaries, and offshore islands.
How to spot
Look for its large size, shaggy black crest (breeding), bright yellow or orange-yellow bill, pale grey upperparts, and white underparts. Distinguish from Royal Tern by subtle bill and crest differences and geographical range. Observe its powerful flight and plunge-diving for fish.
When to spot
Resident year-round in its coastal range. Breeding typically occurs from May to August. Best observed during daylight hours along the coast, especially near breeding colonies.
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
This species was formerly considered a subspecies of the Royal Tern (Thalasseus maximus), but recent genetic and morphological studies support its elevation to a full species.
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