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Common Tern (Sterna hirundo)

The Common Tern (Sterna hirundo) is a graceful migratory seabird known for its striking black cap and vibrant red-orange beak. Often observed diving elegantly for fish in the rivers and lakes around Montreal, this species is a familiar sight during its breeding season.

Identification and Whereabouts

The Common Tern is characterized by its grey back and upper wings, contrasting with a white belly and the underside of its wings. It features a distinctive black cap and a red-orange beak that transitions to black at the tip. This species closely resembles the larger Caspian Tern, which is less commonly observed. Unlike the Caspian Tern, the Common Tern's beak distinctly ends in black.

The Common Tern can be observed from late spring to mid-autumn along the riverbanks and in parks featuring ponds adjacent to the river.

"x" indicates the species was observed, while "-" indicates no observation. Lack of observation doesn't necessarily imply that the species is absent. Data is derived from our park visit journals.