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Brief #
A medium-sized tern with black nape and crown and a dark red beak and legs.
Description #
Adult plumage is grey above, with a black nape and crown and white cheeks. The upperwings are pale grey, with the area near the wingtip being translucent. The tail is white, and the underparts pale grey. Both sexes are similar in appearance. The winter plumage is similar, but the crown is whiter and the bills are darker. Juveniles differ from adults in their black bill and legs, "scaly" appearing wings, and mantle with dark feather tips, dark carpal wing bar, and short tail streamers. During their first summer, juveniles also have a whiter forecrown. The beak is dark red, as are the short legs and webbed feet.
Measurements #
Length: 33 - 36 cm
Wingspan: 76 - 85 cm
Weight: 86 - 127 g
Gallery #
