Common Tern vs White-cheeked Tern

In short

The Common Tern and White-cheeked Tern are similar in appearance but can be distinguished by their bill color and plumage details. The Common Tern has a red bill with a black tip, while the White-cheeked Tern has a black bill. Both species share similar habitats and behaviors, making these plumage differences crucial for identification.

Identification tips

1. Bill color: Look for a red bill with a black tip in the Common Tern versus a black bill in the White-cheeked Tern. 2. Cheek patch: The White-cheeked Tern has a noticeable white cheek patch. 3. Tail shape: Check the tail fork depth; the Common Tern has a deeper fork. 4. Location: Consider the geographic range; the White-cheeked Tern is more tropical.

Size

Both species are similar in size, with slender bodies and long wings typical of terns.

Plumage

The Common Tern has a grayish body with a white underbelly and a black cap on the head. In contrast, the White-cheeked Tern also has a black cap but features a distinctive white cheek patch and a more uniform gray body. The Common Tern's tail is deeply forked and white, whereas the White-cheeked Tern's tail is less deeply forked.

Behaviour

Both species exhibit similar foraging behaviors, often seen diving for fish. They are also both colonial nesters.

Habitat

Both terns can be found in coastal and inland water habitats, though the Common Tern has a broader range, often found in more temperate regions compared to the more tropical distribution of the White-cheeked Tern.

Voice

Vocalizations are not distinctly different enough to be a reliable field mark without prior experience.