Description:
Size: Approximately 30 cm (including a 10 cm tail). It is differentiated from the Common Tern ( Sterna hirundo) by its paler upperparts and sometimes, a pinkish tinge on the underparts. Its tail is longer and deeply forked; the outer tail feathers lack black edging. When perched, the tail extends to the tips of the wings. During winter, the forehead is black. Juveniles have pale brown backs with a white border around the wingtips and a darker head than the Common Tern (Sterna hirundo).
Distribution:
Southern Vietnam.
Status:
Resident. Rare.
Habitat:
Coastal areas and small offshore islands.