Snapshot: Forster’s Tern

Forster’s Terns are not a common tern species on the Massachusetts north shore but are often seen in the late summer. Adults have a prominent eye patch in their non-breeding plumage and that makes them easy to spot. This one has a hint of rust coloration on its back. Young birds have rusty brown shoulders, crown and small patches on the wings so this is a youngster that still has some of its juvenile colors.