West African Crested Tern

The West African crested tern, Thalasseus albididorsalis, stands out as one of the larger members of the crested terns. This bird is characterized by its forked tail and a strikingly long, orange bill. Adults typically weigh around 367 grams and boast a wingspan stretching from 125 to 135 centimeters. In its breeding attire, the bird displays a white underside, pale gray upper parts, and a distinct black cap with a shaggy crest at the back. The primary feathers are elegantly tipped with black, and the legs are a deep black hue.

Identification Tips

When identifying the West African crested tern, look for the adult's long, orange bill and black legs. During breeding season, the black head with a rear crest is a key feature, while the non-breeding adult will have black limited to the crest. Juveniles can be recognized by their white underside, streaked and blotched upper parts, and a smaller, pale yellow bill. Their leg color can vary, presenting in shades of green, yellow, or pink.

Habitat

The West African crested tern is a coastal bird, favoring the islands off the coast of Africa for breeding.

Distribution

Breeding populations of this tern are found on select islands between Mauritania and Senegambia, with potential breeding as far east as Nigeria. Outside the breeding season, they range along the coast from Morocco to Namibia.

Diet and Feeding

The diet of the West African crested tern consists primarily of fish and shrimp, which they catch through plunge-diving in shallow coastal and tidal waters. Unlike the Arctic tern's "stepped-hover" technique, this species dives directly for its prey. Its menu includes herring, mullet, grunts, jacks, and spadefish.

Conservation status

As of the last update, the IUCN has not yet evaluated the conservation status of the West African crested tern.