Forster's Tern is the only tern that regularly winters in North America and is found along the Atlantic and Gulf Coasts year-round. In non-breeding plumage it has a distinctive black mask through the eye rather than a full black cap. It nests in freshwater and brackish marshes rather than on sandy beaches.
Best time to see a Forster's Tern
The best time to see a Forster's Tern is March–August, when about 61% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 27,858 research-grade iNaturalist observations.
Not certain it is a Forster's Tern? What bird is this? walks through what to check first and the lookalikes that catch people out.
Recent Forster's Tern sightings near you
Live, research-grade observations from iNaturalist. Allow location to center the map on you.
Spotted a Forster's Tern?
Point Huck at any plant, bird, or animal and know for sure - plus a live map of where it is being spotted near you.