Royal Tern Similar Species Comparison

Nonbreeding adult

Large tern with pointed wings, a long forked tail, and a bright orange bill. Nonbreeding birds have a narrow often shaggy band at the back of the head.

Breeding adult

Large tern with a daggerlike orange bill. Breeding birds have a shaggy black crown that is sometimes held flat. Note black legs.

Nonbreeding adult

Plunge dives into shallow water to capture fish and crustaceans such as shrimp.

Nonbreeding adult

Nonbreeding birds have a narrow often shaggy band at the back of the head.

Nonbreeding adult

Adult male and female

Immature

Immature birds have darker wingtips and a narrow shaggy crest.

Juvenile

Juveniles are spotted with black and gray above with a partial cap. Note gray bar across the wings.

Breeding adult

Pale gray above with a long forked tail and pointed wings. Flies with strong rowing wingbeats.

Breeding adult

Social and colonial nesting waterbird found in groups year-round. Breeding adults have a shaggy black cap and a bright orange bill.

Juvenile

Molting adult

Immature

Flock

Found along coastal warm waters and sandy beaches.