Royal Tern look-alikes
Thalasseus maximus
Spotted a bird? Identify it instantly with the Birdby app
Open the appSeveral birds can be mistaken for the Royal Tern. Compare the key differences below to confirm your sighting.
Birds to compare
Caspian Tern
Hydroprogne caspia
Key differences
Caspian Terns are larger, have a thicker, duller red bill (often with a black tip), and a less shaggy black cap that is more uniformly black in breeding plumage. Their flight is heavier, and their call is a deeper, harsher 'kraaah'.
Elegant Tern
Thalasseus elegans
Key differences
Elegant Terns are slightly smaller and more slender, with a longer, more slender, and often brighter orange bill. Their crest is typically longer and more shaggy, especially in breeding plumage. Their call is a higher-pitched, more nasal 'kee-arr'.
Sandwich Tern
Thalasseus sandvicensis
Key differences
Sandwich Terns are smaller, have a black bill with a yellow tip, and a less extensive black cap in breeding plumage. Their upperparts are darker gray, and their call is a distinctive 'kirr-ik' or 'kerr-ick'.
Explore the Royal Tern
Identify birds anywhere
Free on iOS, Android, and Web. Photo & sound identification, full species database, and your personal life list.