Terns on Allahein River estuary, The Gambia (1 Viewer)

[Dave Barnett]

Please help me identify the terns seen in these photos alongside the Caspian Terns - are they Lesser Crested or African Royal? Taken on the Allahein river in southern Gambia, near the estuary in the company of Pelicans and Slender Billed Gulls on 18th April 2024. Many thanks in anticipation of your help. Cheers, Dave

 

[Bewick]

I believe size (lessers would be dwarfed by the Caspian's), more robust bill and the extensive crest that almost extends to the nape makes these terns West African terns (or royal depending on what guide you have).

 

[sicklebill]

You have both species here, mostly West African Crested and a handful of the much stouter billed red-billed with dark tips Caspian

 

[Bewick]

You have both species here, mostly West African Crested and a handful of the much stouter billed red-billed with dark tips Caspian

Lesser crested terns?

 

[njlarsen]

The species formerly included in Royal is often called West African Crested Tern

West African Crested Tern - BirdForum Opus

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