[littletiff99]

These terns were seen at Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve today (8-12-09). My guess is that they are either Forster's or Least. Since I know there are other types of terns in the same area I just want to make sure my ID's are correct.

[emupilot]

Here's what I think:

1. Caspian - big, big all-red bill, short tail
2. Forster's
3. Elegant - very long all-orange bill (I think too long for Royal)

(on edit) For #2, Forster's is kind of the default tern if a bird doesn't look like something else. Size generally makes Least obvious if you see one, but that can't be judged in the photo. I think young Least also has a prominent black bar on its wings.

[Reuven_M]

Caspian, Forster's, Royal/Elegant

[chris butterworth]

I'd go with Caspian, Forster's and Elegant ( the bill does'nt look quite right for Royal, too slim and slightly too downcurved.)
Chris

[Jeff hopkins]

Caspian, Forster's, and elegant for me, too.

[Valéry Schollaert]

I agree on Caspian, Forster's and elegant (beak is typical and doen't match large bill of Royal).

[littletiff99]

Thanks everyone! I also saw least terns that day. 4 different terns in one day, not bad.

[lou salomon]

and the 4 gulls with the caspian tern -> ring-billed or california?? i tend to see them as ring-billed gulls on rel. size, leg length and stance.
gentoo?

[Valéry Schollaert]

Lou,

As they are very pale (with dull legs) I'd say your are right for RBG. I think california would be darker on mantle and wings.

regards,