a couple bird to confirm....

[gary yankech]

I was down at the Toronto Islands, lots of good bird around. Finally saw a Wilson's Warbler, been waiting on this one for a few years now.  I have two birds I just need confirmation on.

Is this a Yellow Warbler?  or maybe a Orange-crowned?


Yellow Warbler? by Gary Yankech, on Flickr

Is this one a Common Tern? There were a few of these around at trout Pond,  but I did not get a good look at them, they were too far away. This one sat for a long time, but did not turn so I get a better look. Maybe a Forester''s Tern?


Common Tern? by Gary Yankech, on Flickr

Thanks in advance.

[lovemypt]

sorry...yellow warbler,  orange crown are much more drab looking

[gary yankech]

thanks....thought it was a yellow, but the slight tinge of darkness on its head threw me off.

[thouc]

It's very difficult to separate sitting Common and Forster's Tern so I think I have to pass on that picture. In flight it is easier.

[gary yankech]

yes....I wish I had a photo of one in flight. Are Forester's  Terns common in the GTA? Just wondering.

[Pat Hodgson]

Forster's terns are not common here, but they do occur.  Common is common, so we have to expect that one.  But this one looks like Forster's based on all white breast/belly, fairly thick bill, extensive amount of black on bill.

[Rotarran]

I've done some investigations recently into medium-sized Tern ID'ing and based on what I've learned, I believe that's a Common Tern.  The bill and legs look more red than orange and its legs seem shorter than that of a Forster's Tern.  See here for a complete guide:
http://ebird.org/content/wi/news/id-tip ... zed-terns/