Little Tern vs Caspian Tern

In short

The Little Tern is a small, delicate tern with a slender bill and a distinctive black cap, while the Caspian Tern is the largest tern, with a massive red bill and a more robust build. These species differ significantly in size and bill structure, which are the most reliable field marks for identification.

Identification tips

1. Size and Bill: Look for the size difference; the Caspian Tern is much larger with a thick red bill, while the Little Tern is small with a slender yellow bill. 2. Flight Style: Observe the flight; Little Terns hover before diving, Caspian Terns soar with slow wing beats. 3. Vocalization: Listen for calls; Little Terns have high-pitched calls, Caspian Terns have loud, harsh calls.

Size

The Little Tern is much smaller, with a wingspan of about 50 cm, compared to the Caspian Tern's impressive wingspan of up to 140 cm.

Plumage

The Little Tern has a black cap and white forehead, with a yellow bill during breeding season. The Caspian Tern has a black cap as well, but its bill is bright red and much thicker. Both have grey upperparts and white underparts, but the Caspian Tern's size and bill color are more striking.

Behaviour

The Little Tern is agile in flight, often seen hovering before plunge-diving for fish. The Caspian Tern has a strong, gull-like flight with slow wing beats and is known for its dramatic soaring.

Habitat

Little Terns are typically found along coastlines, estuaries, and inland waterways during breeding. Caspian Terns are more widespread, found on all continents except Antarctica, preferring coastal and large inland water bodies.

Voice

The Little Tern has a sharp, high-pitched call, while the Caspian Tern's call is loud and raucous, often described as a harsh 'kraaa'.