Caspian Tern
Learn to identify the Caspian Tern by ear. Master the "kree-ahh-ahh" phrase and tell it apart from similar species.
What the Caspian Tern sounds like
The Caspian Tern is the world’s largest tern, a powerfully built seabird almost gull-sized, with a thick neck, broad pointed wings and a massive coral-red bill. Its clean white body, pale silvery-gray back and black cap give it a crisp, striking look in flight as it patrols high above the water before plunging head-first after fish.
“kree-ahh-ahh”
How to tell it apart
Lessons featuring the Caspian Tern
Ready to test your ear? Practice identifying the Caspian Tern's sounds in these interactive in-app lessons.
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Where you'll hear it
Breeds on sparsely vegetated islands in large lakes, coastal lagoons, estuaries and barrier beaches; forages over fresh and saltwater, including bays, rivers and near-shore ocean.
In North America it nests from April–July, migrates southward August–October, and winters along Gulf, Atlantic and Pacific coasts as well as Caribbean and South America.
Similar species
Royal Tern
~25 % smaller and slimmer
Elegant Tern
Much smaller, with long drooping orange bill
Forster’s Tern
Half the size, with slender orange bill