Caspian Terns

Caspian Tern, June 11, 2012

I have noticed several (2-6) Caspian Terns (Hydroprogne caspia) in the area for a month or so. They have proven very challenging to photograph but I got a couple good shots this afternoon. It is the world’s largest tern with a length of 48–56 cm, a wingspan of 127–140 cm. The global population is about 50,000 pairs. They have a distinguishing croak that sounds a bit like a Great Blue Heron.

Black Oystercatcher Eggs June 10, 2012

I also finally found an Oystercatcher nest just above the high-tide line on the West side of the island below the engine room.