Gull-billed Tern

Identification: 
The thick black bill, heavier body,black legs, and pale flight feathers help distinguish this tern from Florida’s other small terns. 

Breeding: 
Colonial nester, often nesting in relatively small colonies, sometimes with other terns/skimmers.  A rare and scattered breeder in Florida.  Has been observed nesting on rooftops.  Known to nest in early May, but peak nesting is the last two weeks in May. 

Clutch Size: 
Usually 2-3 eggs (ranges from 1-4)

Incubation: 
23 days

Fledge: 
30 days

Breeding Bird Atlas Account

*Adult Gull-Billed Tern photo by Jeff Gore
Gull-Billed Tern eggs photo by Gary Sprandel