Least Tern

Sternula antillarum

Also known as: Sterna antillarum

23 cm (9") Uncommon. Sandy beaches along coasts and major inland rivers. Smallest tern, Robin-sized. White forehead with a small black cap; orange-yellow bill with a tiny black tip; white underparts; gray mantle; long, slender wings with dark in tips; orange-yellow legs.

Winter adult similar but has more white on forehead.

In flight, rapid wing beats and distinctive black wedge on outer wings.

Song: call - a rapid series of kip notes, a high pitched "chir-ee-eep".

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Distribution Maps

Least Tern winter distribution map
Least Tern winter distribution map
Least Tern distribution map
Least Tern distribution map