Bridled Tern vs Least Tern

The Bridled Tern and Least Tern can be distinguished primarily by size and habitat preference. Bridled Terns are larger and more pelagic, while Least Terns are smaller and often found on coastal beaches and rivers.

Look for the larger size and offshore presence to identify Bridled Terns. Least Terns are smaller and more likely to be seen on beaches or near rivers.

Bridled Tern is larger than the Least Tern.

Bridled Terns are strictly marine and often found offshore, whereas Least Terns breed on coastal beaches and major interior rivers.