The spectacled tern (Onychoprion lunatus), also known as the grey-backed tern, is a seabird in the family Laridae.

A medium-sized tern of the tropical Pacific. Similar to Sooty Tern, but the back is gray (not black) and the white patch on the forehead extends behind the eye. Note deeply forked tail. Nests on the ground and occasionally on ledges on tropical islands. Rarely seen from shore.

Common Terns are pale gray overall with a black cap. Breeding birds have a fully black cap that extends to the back of the neck and a gray belly. They also have an orange bill tipped in black and orange legs. Nonbreeding birds have a white forehead, a …

The majority of sea terns have light grey or white body plumage as adults, with a black cap to the head. The legs and bill are various combinations of red, orange, yellow, or black depending on species. The pale plumage is conspicuous from a distance at sea, and may attract other birds to a good feeding area for these fish-eating species.

The Pākalakala, also known as the Gray-backed Tern or Spectacled Tern, is a seabird that is native to the U.S. state of Hawaii. This species is found in the Hawaiian Islands and is considered a unique and important part of the local biodiversity.

Nov 16, 2011 · Whereas American birders may be familiar with Sooty and Bridled Terns as stormwashed vagrants to their shores, and might get the Aleutian Tern on a pilgrimage to Alaska, the Grey-backed Tern is a much more rarely seen bird. The species replaces the widespread, almost pan-tropical, Bridled Tern in the western Pacific Ocean.

The pākalakala or gray-backed tern (Family: Laridae) is endemic to the central Pacific and breeds on small and remote islands and atolls, however, its historical and current distribution are poorly known. Adults are mostly slate gray above and white below with a black crown and nape.

Tour routes of great scenic drives on National Wildlife Refuges. Below is a list of additional information and media on this taxon. You can further refine your results, or enter a search term below. Working with others to conserve, protect and enhance fish, wildlife, plants and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people.

Feb 4, 2024 · Being able to properly identify tern species is important for understanding their conservation status, habitat needs, and migration patterns. This article will provide an overview of the best ways to tell terns apart using field marks, size, voice, habitat, and range.

A mostly pelagic, dark-backed tern that habitually rests on flotsam at sea, much like the closely related and more familiar Bridled Tern. Breeding adults are medium-gray above, all-white below, with a black cap, white forehead and thin white eyebrows—in the shape of a narrow visor.