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
Live, research-grade observations from iNaturalist. Allow location to center the map on you.
Spot a Caspian Tern? Identify it instantly.
Point Huck at any plant, bird, or animal for an instant ID, its rarity, and a live map of where it is being seen near you.
Get HuckGet an alert when a Caspian Tern is spotted
Pick a park, state, or city and we’ll email you when one turns up there. One check a day, only when there’s something new.
Free. Unsubscribe from any email. See our Privacy Policy.
Love birds? Get Huck field notes
Spotting tips, new species, and the best of what people are finding in the wild - straight to your inbox.