Sandwich Tern vs Great Crested Tern

In short

The Sandwich Tern and Great Crested Tern are similar in appearance but can be distinguished by their bill color and size. The Sandwich Tern typically has a black bill with a yellow tip, while the Great Crested Tern has a more robust, all-yellow bill. Observing these features with binoculars can help differentiate these two species.

Identification tips

1. Bill color: Look for the black bill with a yellow tip in Sandwich Terns, versus the all-yellow bill in Great Crested Terns. 2. Size and structure: Note the larger size and more robust build of the Great Crested Tern. 3. Plumage: While similar, the Sandwich Tern may appear more slender. 4. Nesting colonies: Sandwich Terns often nest with Royal Terns and Laughing Gulls, which can be a clue to their identity.

Size

The Great Crested Tern is generally larger and more robust than the Sandwich Tern.

Plumage

Both species have similar plumage with white bodies and black caps, but the Sandwich Tern often shows a more slender appearance.

Behaviour

Both species exhibit similar behaviors typical of terns, such as diving for fish. However, specific behavioral differences are not well-documented.

Habitat

Both species are found in coastal habitats, but the Sandwich Tern is more likely to be seen nesting in mixed-species colonies with Royal Terns and Laughing Gulls.

Voice

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