A slender, dark-backed tern, breeds in several island colonies off the Gulf Coast. Alternate Adult has black wings and back, forked tail extending past wings, dark tail with white edges, white underparts, black legs, black nape, black cap and eyeline, white forehead extending to eye, and thin black bill. Basic Adult has more white on forehead and nape. Sexes are similar. Juvenile is black with white spots on wings and back. Bridled Tern has grayer back in all plumages.

Length: 41 (cm) Wingspan: 81 (cm)

Habitat:

Open ocean, nests on islands.

Behavior:

Nest is a platform of vegetation on ground. Breeds in large colonies. Usually found far offshore, rarely perching.

Feeding:

Swoops or hovers over surface of water to pick up fish and other small aquatic organisms.