Common or Arctic Tern - Elton Reservoir, Greater Manchester UK (1 Viewer)

[Earnest lad]

I saw this bird this evening. I guess it is most likely a Common Tern. However I can't decide whether or not I can see a dark tip at the end of the bill (sorry for the poor quality pics). It made me wonder whether it might just be an Arctic. I suppose that is unlikely but I would be grateful for any opinions if possible please.

 

[KC Foggin]

I'm gonna try Arctic

 

[Earnest lad]

I'm gonna try Arctic

Thank you KC. I hope for additional answers too.

 

[aeshna5]

Common Tern. Bill too long for Arctic, darker outer primaries & tail length.

 

[Redmist]

Agree with aeshna5, and to my eyes the dark bill tip is quite clear in these pictures

 

[Earnest lad]

Common Tern. Bill too long for Arctic, darker outer primaries & tail length.

Thank you so much, and the others that agreed

 

[Earnest lad]

Agree with aeshna5, and to my eyes the dark bill tip is quite clear in these pictures

Thank you. I see now the bill is too long. I saw not sure if the dark tip was an artifact or something, but now I see. I hoped in vaiin for the less common (in these parts) Arctic

 

[Steve Lister]

In general the primary pattern, quite different between the two species, is more use than the bill.