Aleutian Tern vs Bridled Tern

In short

Aleutian Tern and Bridled Tern can be challenging to differentiate due to their similar size and coloration. However, the Aleutian Tern has a distinctive white forehead and a more pronounced black cap, while the Bridled Tern features a more extensive white supercilium and a darker back. Observing these features, along with their behavior and habitat preferences, can help in identification.

Identification tips

1. Look for the white forehead and black cap of the Aleutian Tern. 2. Note the extensive white supercilium and darker back of the Bridled Tern. 3. Consider habitat: Aleutian Terns are more northern, while Bridled Terns prefer tropical regions. 4. Observe behavior: Bridled Terns are often solitary and near flotsam, unlike Aleutian Terns.

Size

Both species are similar in size, typical of medium-sized terns.

Plumage

The Aleutian Tern has a white forehead contrasting with a black cap, and a lighter gray back. In contrast, the Bridled Tern has a more extensive white supercilium that extends behind the eye and a darker gray back. Both have white underparts, but the Bridled Tern's darker back is a key differentiator.

Behaviour

Aleutian Terns often associate with other tern species and are less described in behavior specifics. Bridled Terns are more solitary at sea, often seen near marine flotsam and less likely to form large feeding flocks.

Habitat

Aleutian Terns breed in northern coastal regions and are believed to winter in the South Pacific. Bridled Terns have a more tropical distribution, breeding in sheltered crevices and are more likely to be seen near land.

Voice

Vocalizations are not well-documented for Aleutian Terns, while Bridled Terns are known to have a distinctive call, but specifics are not detailed in the sources.