Royal Tern

Identification:
Slightly smaller and more streamlined than the larger Caspian Tern. Bill narrower, and more orange-red than the dark red of many Caspian Terns. Flight capable juveniles have a more yellow bill than the orange bill of juvenile Caspians.

Breeding:
Colonial nester, often nesting with Laughing Gulls and other terns. Has been observed nesting on rooftops. Peak nesting occurs in the last two weeks of May.

Clutch Size:
Usually 1 egg (ranges from 1-2)

Incubation:
21 days

Fledge:
28-35 days

Breeding Bird Atlas Account

*Royal Tern Photos by Marianne Korosy