Royal Tern
NameRoyal Tern
Common NameRoyal Tern
Scientific NameThalasseus maximus
FamilyLaridae
Wingspan (cm)125
Length (cm)48
Weight (g)450
Plumage DetailsAdults have a white body with pale gray back and upperwings. The head features a prominent black cap or shaggy crest, which recedes to a patchy black and white pattern in non-breeding plumage. The bill is stout and bright orange, and the legs are black. The tail is forked.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a harsh, grating 'kree-eek' or 'kirr-it' call, often given in flight or at colonies. They also produce a softer 'churr' sound.
Primary Dietpiscivore
Primary Habitatscoastal, wetland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound along the Atlantic, Pacific, and Gulf coasts of North and South America, as well as the Atlantic coast of West Africa. They breed on coastal islands and beaches and disperse widely during non-breeding seasons.
Identifying Featureslarge size, shaggy black crest, bright orange bill, pale gray upperparts, white underparts, forked tail
Description
The Royal Tern is a large, elegant seabird characterized by its shaggy black crest and bright orange bill. It is often seen plunge-diving for fish in coastal waters, estuaries, and lagoons. This species is highly social, nesting in dense colonies on sandy beaches or islands.
