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Tern, Duxbury, MA (1 Viewer)

H

Howard18

Member
I assume this is a common tern since they are the most, well, common. COuld it be anything else?
 

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Yes, Common Tern. The other three confusable species are Arctic ( the legs are too long ), Forsters ( the upperparts are too dark and the wingtips aren't white / very pale grey ) and Roseate ( would have an all black bill, paler upperparts and wingtips and a noticeably long tail ). BTW. Looking at the habitat Forsters would be the more numerous of the Terns there.
 
chris butterworth said:
Yes, Common Tern. The other three confusable species are Arctic ( the legs are too long ), Forsters ( the upperparts are too dark and the wingtips aren't white / very pale grey ) and Roseate ( would have an all black bill, paler upperparts and wingtips and a noticeably long tail ). BTW. Looking at the habitat Forsters would be the more numerous of the Terns there.
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Thanks Chris,

I do like it when responders give this sort of explanation of why it is what it is, and also some differentiation pointers from other contenders. Helps those of use who lurk here mainly to learn!

Not always necessary or appropriate I know…..

Appreciated

Mick
 
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