Forster's Tern vs Ruby-crowned Kinglet

In short

Forster's Tern and Ruby-crowned Kinglet are distinct in appearance and behavior. Forster's Tern is a medium-sized waterbird often found in marshes, while the Ruby-crowned Kinglet is a small passerine with a distinctive wing-flicking behavior, typically seen in forests.

Identification tips

• Size and Shape: Look for the larger size and longer wings of Forster's Tern compared to the small, round body of the Ruby-crowned Kinglet.
• Plumage: Note the black cap and orange bill of Forster's Tern in breeding plumage versus the olive tones and white wing-bars of the Ruby-crowned Kinglet.
• Behavior: Observe the wing-flicking of the Ruby-crowned Kinglet, a behavior not seen in Forster's Tern.
• Habitat: Consider the habitat; Forster's Tern is more likely in open water or marshes, while the kinglet prefers forested areas.

Size

Forster's Tern is significantly larger than the Ruby-crowned Kinglet, with a wingspan more typical of terns compared to the kinglet's small, compact size.

Plumage

Forster's Tern has a white body with a black cap and orange bill during breeding season, whereas the Ruby-crowned Kinglet is olive green-gray with two white wing-bars and a broken white eye-ring. The male kinglet may show a hidden scarlet crown patch when agitated.

Behaviour

Forster's Tern is often seen hovering over water and diving for fish, while the Ruby-crowned Kinglet is known for its constant wing-flicking and agile movements through foliage.

Habitat

Forster's Tern is typically found in marshes and coastal areas, whereas the Ruby-crowned Kinglet inhabits spruce-fir forests during breeding and a variety of habitats during migration and winter.

Voice

Forster's Tern has a harsh call typical of terns, while the Ruby-crowned Kinglet's song is a series of high-pitched notes, often heard during the breeding season.