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Least Tern
Sternula antillarum
37.7761, -122.304
Field Notes
Description:
Smallest tern of the Americas. Gray back and upper wings. Black wingtips. Black cap with white forehead. Bill is yellow with black tip. Fast fliers and dive quickly. <br> Endangered mostly because they usually nest on beaches that are impacted by humans. Some have adapted to find other locations. Like the one here belongs to a colony that is nesting on a closed Naval airfield. This colonyand others along the California coast are protected by the DFW and other joint services. The location is perfect as the feeding area is not far. Volunteers help with monitoring activities and predators. Most dangerous predators are the Peregrine Falcon, American Kestrel and the Burrowing Owl. But will also mob, Gulls, Great Blue Herons, Crows and Ravens. These could also be a threat but not as much.
Habitat:
These prefered to nest on a graveled asphalt airfield near the bay. It's open area lets them have clear views of any predators.
Notes:
Two other species that try to nest in the colony are the Killdeer and Horned Larks.
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