Caspian Terns @ Rattray Marsh
Outdoor Ontario

Caspian Terns @ Rattray Marsh

rcflier

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I spotted these Terns at Ratray Marsh on May 10th.  More specific ident would be appreciated.





« Last Edit: May 16, 2012, 01:15:07 PM by rcflier »
Bob


Trillian Flummox

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Black legs and those giant orange bills would suggest Caspian Terns. (Common, Arctic and Forsters have orange legs)

-kris
« Last Edit: December 31, 1969, 07:00:00 PM by Guest »


Brian Bailey

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Yes, definitely Caspian.  Note the massive bill and short, non-forked tail.  Also (not visible in photos) their flight style is more gull-like - not bouncy like a Common Tern.

BB

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« Last Edit: December 31, 1969, 07:00:00 PM by Guest »
Brian Bailey
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rcflier

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These guys did exhibit a somewhat forked tail, as seen in a couple of other pics I got (below).  



« Last Edit: May 16, 2012, 01:15:40 PM by rcflier »
Bob


Brian Bailey

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True, a Caspian Tern has a slightly forked tail, but Common Terns have deeply forked tails - almost as much as a Barn Swallow.  In straight flight like this, it would appear deeply forked.  It looks much less forked when they fan their tail for turning, hovering, etc.  (The tail shape isn't always as obvious when they're perched.)

The two quickest ways to separate them in the field are by voice (I usually hear them before I see them), and flight style.

BB
« Last Edit: December 31, 1969, 07:00:00 PM by Guest »
Brian Bailey
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rcflier

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Brian - thanks for the clarificaton, very much appreciated.

Kris ( Trillian Flummox )  thanks also.
« Last Edit: December 31, 1969, 07:00:00 PM by Guest »
Bob