The Caspian Tern is the largest tern in the world, nearly crow-sized, with a massive blood-red bill and black cap that extends around the eye in a heavy mask. It is cosmopolitan, breeding on every continent. It plunge-dives for fish with surprising power and steals fish from other terns and gulls. Its raspy, crow-like call is unlike any other tern.
Best time to see a Caspian Tern
The best time to see a Caspian Tern is March–July, when about 63% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 22,895 research-grade iNaturalist observations.
Not certain it is a Caspian Tern? What bird is this? walks through what to check first and the lookalikes that catch people out.
Recent Caspian Tern sightings near you
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