Caspian Tern (Hydroprogne caspia)
The Caspian Tern (Hydroprogne caspia) is the largest tern species, known for its striking appearance and powerful flight. As a rare visitor to Montreal, it can be easily mistaken for the smaller Common Tern, but its larger size and uniformly red beak set it apart.
Common Names
| 🇨🇦 | Caspian Tern |
| 🇫🇷 | Sterne caspienne |
| 🇩🇪 | Raubseeschwalbe |
| 🇲🇽 | Pagaza piquirroja |
Taxonomy
| Order | Charadriiformes |
| Family | Laridae |
Characteristics
| Length | 48-60cm |
| Weight | 530-782g |
| Wingspan | 127-145cm |
| Clutch Size | 1-3 eggs |
| Incubation | 25-28 days |
| Fledging | 35-45 days |
| Sexual Maturity | 2-3 years |
Explore More
📖 Wikipedia Page: For more information about this species.
Identification and Whereabouts
Unlike the Common Tern, the Caspian Tern's beak is uniformly red, lacking a black tip. This bird is notably larger, and its flight is less erratic and slower as it gracefully sails over the water in search of prey.
I observed this species only once at Parc des Rapides.