large body; long, yellow, slighted decurved bill (South Africa; 2007-06-30)


Swift Tern
Sterna bergii

Native Range: Africa, Australia, Oriental Region

Notes: a large-bodied and geographically widespread tern reminiscent of the Royal Tern of the Americas (and Africa), but with a yellow or greenish-yellow (not orange) bill; like all terns, plunge-dives for fish.


nonbreeder; black nape rather than all of crown (South Africa; 2007-06-30)

deeply forked tail; long pinted wings (Australia; 2006-07-10)

standing with a Grey-hooded Gull (South Africa; 2007-06-30)