Forster's Tern

Sterna forsteri

Forster's Terns are generally the most common of the black-capped, gray-backed, white bodied terns found in the state.  Very similar to the Common Tern, the Forster's Tern is also the more common breeder in the state, generally being found around freshwater marshes, and often nesting on the top of muskrat houses.  

Habitat: In summer, primarily large freshwater marshes on the interior of the country, or salt marshes along the coasts. In winter, many aquatic habitats along the coasts.

Diet: Primarily fish, but will also eat insects, small crustaceans and mollusks, frogs, and tadpoles.

Behavior: Forages by flying slowing over water or hovering, dipping down to snag sighted fish below the surface.  They will also sometimes capture flying insects in mid-air.

Nesting: June and July

Breeding Map: Breeding Bird Survey map

Song: Forster's Tern Song

Migration: Summers in scattered locations throughout the U.S. and southern Canada.  Winters along U.S. coastlines and points south, but is generally not as much of a long-distance migrant as its close relatives.

Similar Species: Common Tern, Arctic Tern

Conservation Status: Has declined in portions of its range, probably due to habitat loss.

Further Information: 1) Patuxent Bird Identification InfoCenter, Forster's Tern

2) Cornell University's "All About Birds - Forster's Tern"

3) eNature.com -- Forster's Tern

Photo Information: June 23rd, 2005 - Assateague Island in Virginia - Terry Sohl

Additional Photos: Click on the image chips or text links below for additional, higher-resolution Forster's Tern photos.