Arctic Tern vs Roseate Tern

In short

The Arctic Tern and Roseate Tern can be distinguished by their tail length and bill color. The Arctic Tern has a longer tail that extends well beyond the wingtips, while the Roseate Tern has a shorter tail. Additionally, the Arctic Tern's bill is blood-red, whereas the Roseate Tern's bill is black with a red base during the breeding season.

Identification tips

1. Tail Length: Check if the tail extends well beyond the wingtips (Arctic Tern) or is shorter (Roseate Tern). 2. Bill Color: Look for a blood-red bill (Arctic Tern) versus a black bill with a red base (Roseate Tern). 3. Breast Hue: Note any pinkish hue on the breast (Roseate Tern in breeding season). 4. Flight Style: Observe the flight; Roseate Terns are more buoyant and graceful. 5. Vocalizations: Listen for a sharp call (Arctic Tern) or a grating call (Roseate Tern).

Size

Both species are similar in size, but the Roseate Tern may appear slightly more slender.

Plumage

The Arctic Tern has a uniformly gray body with a white face and a black cap, while the Roseate Tern is paler with a distinctive pinkish hue on its breast during the breeding season. The Roseate Tern also has a more streamlined appearance with longer outer tail feathers.

Behaviour

Both species exhibit similar flight patterns, but the Roseate Tern is known for its more buoyant and graceful flight. The Arctic Tern is renowned for its long migratory journeys.

Habitat

Arctic Terns breed in Arctic and sub-Arctic regions and migrate to the Antarctic, whereas Roseate Terns are primarily found in tropical and subtropical regions, with breeding colonies in the North Atlantic and Caribbean.

Voice

The Arctic Tern has a sharp, high-pitched call, while the Roseate Tern's call is more grating and harsh.