Caspian Tern

Scientific name: Hydroprogne caspia

Did you know: Caspian Terns are the largest tern species in the world, with a wingspan reaching up to 145 cm!

What Do Caspian Terns Look Like? (how to identify them)

Caspian Terns are easily recognised by their large size and striking appearance. They have a robust red-orange bill with a black tip, black legs, and a distinctive black cap on their heads.

Their bodies are white with pale grey upper wings and dark primary feathers on the undersides. Unlike many other terns, they retain some black streaking on their foreheads even in winter.

Differences Between Male And Female Caspian Terns

Male and female Caspian Terns are similar in appearance, making them difficult to distinguish by sight alone.

Both sexes have the same colouration and size, with males typically being slightly larger than females.

Behavioural differences, particularly during breeding season, can help in identifying the sexes. Males are often more active in nest building and territorial displays.

What Do Caspian Terns Eat?

Caspian Terns primarily feed on fish, which they catch by diving into the water from considerable heights. They also consume large insects, the young and eggs of other birds, and occasionally small rodents.

Their foraging can take them up to 60 kilometres from their breeding colonies, and they fish in both freshwater and marine environments.

Where Do Caspian Terns Live? (inc. migration info)

Caspian Terns inhabit coastal regions, large lakes, and river deltas across every continent except Antarctica.

Caspian Tern

In the UK, they are rare visitors, often seen during migration. North American populations migrate to southern coasts, the West Indies, and northern South America for the winter.

European and Asian populations move to tropical regions during non-breeding seasons, while African and Australasian birds are generally resident year-round.

Bird Calls & Songs (the unique voices of Caspian Terns)

The Caspian Tern has a distinctive call, often described as a loud, harsh croak similar to a heron’s. This call is most commonly heard around breeding colonies or when the birds are disturbed.

Their vocalisations play a crucial role in communication, especially for mating pairs and between parents and chicks.

Fun Caspian Tern Facts (kid friendly)

Caspian Terns are the largest tern species, with a wingspan up to 145 cm!
They are known for their bright red bills, which make them easy to spot.
Caspian Terns can live for over 30 years!
These terns are excellent divers, plunging from great heights to catch fish.
Young Caspian Terns are fed by their parents for months after fledging.
They often perform impressive aerial displays during courtship.
Caspian Terns are very protective of their nests and will aggressively defend them from intruders.
They migrate long distances, sometimes flying thousands of miles between breeding and wintering grounds.
Their eggs are well camouflaged with speckles to blend into their surroundings.
Caspian Terns can be found on every continent except Antarctica.

Facts About The Caspian Tern

Diet: Fish and on occasion, small mammals and birds
Length: 47-54cm
Wingspan: 127-145cm
Weight: 530-780g
Scientific Name: Hydroprogne caspia