The Bonaparte’s Gull and Forster’s Tern look a lot alike and I always have to check a reference when I see either. I happened to capture one of each in similar poses during my recent beach visit.
Bonaparte’s Gull Feeding
The gull is slightly larger, but when you see them zooming along above the ocean waves that is hard to tell.
I’ve watched several Forster’s Terns the last few times I’ve been to the rice field impoundment. They are incredibly acrobatic in flight, twisting and turning, then swooping down to the water to go after small fish.
Forster’s Tern
They are quite striking birds, even in non-breeding plumage. When they’ve make the turn and loop back for another run at the pond is the best opportunity to photograph them.
Forster’s Tern
And did I mention they are fast? This is the best I got this day for a dive.
Forster’s Tern
If they pick up a small fish with their feet they quickly pass it to their mouth and down the hatch it goes.