The adults of both sexes are identical in appearance, with grey upperparts, white underparts, a yellow bill, and a shaggy black crest that recedes in winter. Juveniles have a distinctive appearance, with strongly patterned grey, brown and white plumage, and rely on their parents for food for several months after they have fledged. Like all members of the genus Thalasseus, the Crested Tern feeds by plunge diving for fish, usually in marine environments; the male offers fish to the female as part of the courtship ritual.
Linking up with these memes:
What a beauty Liz, the Crested Tern is wonderful, especially with it's wings flapping about. Fabulous.
ReplyDeletegeweldig mooi vooral hoe hij zijn nek helemaal naar achteren kunt bewegen.
ReplyDeletelol, that bird seem to be enjoying itself a lot :) Great captures.
ReplyDeleteTrès belle proximité avec ces magnifiques oiseaux ;-)
ReplyDeleteCéline & Philippe
Beautiful pics, Liz. It's like they knew why you were there, so they made sure you got their best side. :)
ReplyDeleteI love the shot of his head upside down.
ReplyDeleteWhat beautiful photos!
ReplyDeleteWhat a perfect 'model' to work with. Lovely captures.
ReplyDeleteSome cracking photos there Liz.
ReplyDeleteWhat a beautiful bird, Liz!
ReplyDeleteI love the markings.
Realy wonderful photographs, my friend.
Have a great weekend.
xo.
A lovely series!
ReplyDeleteNice series of shots. I find this species to be about the only tern that cooperates with photographers!
ReplyDeleteCheers - Stewart M - Melbourne
Hello, lovely series on these Crested Terns. I guess it is another bird I need to add to my want to see list, I have a big list.
ReplyDeleteThank you so much for linking up and sharing your post. Have a happy day and new week ahead!
Looks like a young one trying hard to fly! Great pictures.
ReplyDeleteGorgeous photos, Liz! Love the "looking up" shot!
ReplyDelete