Sterna forsteri

Small and squeaky, Sterna forsteri finds distinction as the only tern restricted primarily to the North American continent. Breeding in the marshes of the northern United States and Canada, Forster's Tern winters mainly along the southern coasts of the U.S. and Central America. It, like many other terns, spectacularly plunge-dives into water in search of delicious fish.

Diminutive in appearance and elegant on the wing, Sterna forsteri is a subtle avian gem.

I came across a decent-sized flock of terns and gulls loafing at Siesta Beach this afternoon, featuring Forster's, Sandwich, and Royal Terns. Compared to their larger cousins, the Forster's seem just tiny. I set out today to get a good picture of this species, and I couldn't have walked away happier. Patience paid off when this bird awoke from its light slumber and repreatedly stretched its wings in the most aesthetically gratifying ways. Then, just as soon as it had began its little yoga session, it set off to plunge for fish in the shallow surf against another maddening Florida sunset.

Another pose
Yet another pose (Sterna sandvicensis)