Caspian Tern

Name

Caspian Tern

Latin Name

Hydroprogne caspia

Family

Rynchopidae

Length

52 cm

Habitat

In pairs or small parties at coastal lagoons and large inland waters.

Bird Call

The call of the Caspian Tern is a loud and raucous 'krake-kraaah' or 'kraark'.

Breeding

Breeding time at the Cape is December and January, the nest being a scrape on the ground, lined with scraps and containing two rough-textured greenish eggs marked with a few dark purple splotches.

Immature Description

Immature Caspian Tern birds are distinguishable from non-breeding condition by brownish mottling on back.

Adult Description

Largest tern in our region. Massive red bill and overall size render this tern unmistakable.

Status

Common resident.

Distribution

Caspian Tern are resident along the coast and breeds in summer on some of the guano islands, at Reniers Kraal, Bredasdorp and at Strandfontein.

Kruger National Park - South African Safari