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.
