Saunders's Tern vs Common Tern

In short

Saunders's Tern and Common Tern can be distinguished by size and plumage details. Saunders's Tern is smaller with a more delicate appearance, while the Common Tern is larger and more robust. Pay attention to bill size and plumage patterns for reliable identification.

Identification tips

1. Size: Saunders's Tern is smaller and more delicate. 2. Bill: Look for the shorter, slender bill of Saunders's Tern versus the longer, thicker bill of the Common Tern. 3. Forehead and Cap: Saunders's Tern has a white forehead, while the Common Tern has a black cap extending to the bill. 4. Wing Pattern: Common Terns have a more pronounced black edge on the outer primaries. 5. Habitat: Consider the habitat; Saunders's Tern prefers sandy beaches, while Common Terns can be found in a wider range of habitats.

Size

Saunders's Tern is notably smaller and more delicate than the Common Tern.

Plumage

Saunders's Tern has a white forehead and a shorter, more slender bill compared to the Common Tern, which has a black cap extending to the bill and a longer, thicker bill. Common Terns also have a more pronounced black edge on the outer primaries.

Behaviour

Both species exhibit similar foraging behaviors, diving for fish, but Saunders's Tern may appear more agile due to its smaller size.

Habitat

Saunders's Tern is typically found in coastal and sandy beach habitats, while the Common Tern is more widespread, inhabiting a variety of coastal and inland water bodies.

Voice

Vocalizations differ, with Saunders's Tern having a softer, more high-pitched call compared to the harsher, more varied calls of the Common Tern.