Black Skimmer vs Large-billed Tern

In short

The Black Skimmer and Large-billed Tern can be distinguished primarily by their bills and flight behavior. The Black Skimmer has a unique, elongated bill with a lower mandible that extends beyond the upper, while the Large-billed Tern has a heavy, robust bill. Both species are found in similar habitats but have distinct flight patterns.

Identification tips

1. Bill Shape: Look for the Black Skimmer's distinctive bill with a longer lower mandible. 2. Flight Behavior: Observe the skimming flight of the Black Skimmer, which is absent in the Large-billed Tern. 3. Plumage Patterns: Note the Large-billed Tern's black and white wing pattern compared to the Black Skimmer's more uniform black and white coloration. 4. Vocalizations: Listen for the Black Skimmer's dog-like barks, which are unique among these species.

Size

Both species are similar in size, but the Black Skimmer appears more elongated due to its long wings and tail.

Plumage

The Black Skimmer has a black upper body and white underparts, while the Large-billed Tern features a striking wing pattern with black primaries, white secondaries, and a gray back.

Behaviour

Black Skimmers are known for their unique skimming feeding behavior, flying low over water with their lower mandible slicing the surface. Large-billed Terns do not exhibit this behavior and are more typical in their foraging methods.

Habitat

Both species can be found in coastal and riverine habitats, often nesting in mixed colonies. However, the Large-billed Tern is more commonly found along inland rivers and lakes during the breeding season.

Voice

The Black Skimmer is noted for its distinctive dog-like barks, while the Large-billed Tern's vocalizations are less documented but generally not described as similar.