Black Terns are small, graceful birds that are often found near water. They are known for their distinctive black and white plumage, and their ability to hover over the water as they hunt for food. If you are interested in bird watching, or just want to learn more about these beautiful creatures, here are some tips on how to tell a Black Tern from other similar birds.
Appearance
The Black Tern is a small bird, usually measuring around 23 centimeters in length. Its wingspan is around 50 centimeters, and it weighs around 50 grams. The bird has a distinctive black and white plumage, with black feathers on its back, wings, and head, and white feathers on its belly and under its wings. The beak and legs of the Black Tern are also black. During breeding season, the bird's plumage becomes darker and more iridescent.
Habitat
The Black Tern is a migratory bird that breeds in North America and winters in Central and South America. During breeding season, the bird is found in marshes, wetlands, and other shallow bodies of water. It prefers areas with vegetation that it can use for nesting, such as cattails and bulrushes. During migration, the Black Tern can be seen near lakes and rivers, and along the coast.
Behavior
The Black Tern is a social bird that typically forms small flocks. It is also known for its distinctive hunting behavior, where it hovers over the water and dips its bill into the surface to catch small fish and insects. The bird is also known for its aerial acrobatics, and can often be seen performing loops and dives in the air.
Voice
The Black Tern's voice is a high-pitched, nasal "kik-kik-kik" or "kree-kree-kree" sound. It is also known for its vocalizations during mating season, which include a variety of calls and songs.
Similar Species
The Black Tern is similar in appearance to a number of other birds, including the Forster's Tern, the Least Tern, and the Common Tern. However, there are several key differences that can help you tell them apart. The Forster's Tern has a longer bill and a more extensive black cap, the Least Tern is smaller and has a yellow bill, and the Common Tern has a longer tail and a more extensive black cap.
Conclusion
If you are interested in bird watching, the Black Tern is a fascinating bird to observe. With its distinctive black and white plumage, acrobatic flying, and unique hunting behavior, it is truly a bird worth watching. By using the tips and information in this article, you should be able to easily spot and identify a Black Tern in the wild.