Caspian Tern in flight next to the Gulf, Fort De Soto County Park, Pinellas County, FloridaCaspian Tern in flight next to the Gulf- Nikon D200, handheld, f6.3, 1/2500, ISO 500, Nikkor 80-400mm VR at 280mm, natural light

Caspian Terns (Hydroprogne caspia) are North America’s largest tern with a wingspan of 50 inches and weighing in at 1.4 pounds. The image above shows an adult going into nonbreeding plumage coming in for a landing at Fort De Soto’s north beach during the month of September.

Caspian Tern on a mudflat at the north beach of Fort De Soto County Park, Pinellas County, FloridaCaspian Tern on a mudflat – Nikon D200, handheld, f6.3, 1/1000, ISO 160, Nikkor 70-300mm VR at 300mm, natural light

This image shows an adult Caspian Tern in breeding plumage with a solid black, glossy cap, this was taken during the month of May also at Fort De Soto’s north beach.

I am fortunate that I see these large terns here in Utah as well. I usually hear their harsh “kraa” long before I see them. Although I have seen a few lately they will soon be gone to their wintering grounds.

Life is good.

Mia

Click here to see more of my Caspian Tern photos plus facts and information about this species.