Little Tern vs Whiskered Tern

In short

The Little Tern (Sternula albifrons) and Whiskered Tern (Chlidonias hybrida) can be distinguished primarily by their size and plumage details. Little Terns are smaller with a more slender build, while Whiskered Terns have a distinctive black cap extending to the nape and contrasting white cheeks during breeding season.

Identification tips

• Size: Little Tern is smaller and more slender.
• Breeding Plumage: Little Tern has a black cap with a white forehead; Whiskered Tern has a black cap extending to the nape with white cheeks.
• Non-breeding Plumage: Whiskered Tern is pale with a dark-flecked crown and black patch behind the eye.
• Vocalization: Listen for the harsher calls of the Whiskered Tern.
• Habitat: Consider the habitat; Little Terns are coastal, Whiskered Terns prefer inland wetlands.

Size

Little Tern is smaller and more slender compared to the medium-small Whiskered Tern.

Plumage

In breeding plumage, the Little Tern has a black cap with a white forehead, while the Whiskered Tern has a black cap extending to the nape with white cheeks. Non-breeding Whiskered Terns are pale with a dark-flecked crown and a black patch behind the eye.

Behaviour

Both species exhibit typical tern behavior, but Whiskered Terns are noted for their more rounded wings and shorter tail.

Habitat

Little Terns are often found in coastal areas, while Whiskered Terns are more likely to be seen in inland wetlands.

Voice

Whiskered Terns have a harsher call, described as a rasping 'kyick' or 'cherk', compared to other terns.