The smallest of American Terns, the Least Tern is found nesting on sandy beaches along the southern coasts of the United States and up the major river systems far into the interior of the continent.

Interesting Information

• Least terns are the smallest member of the gull and tern family.

• They prefer sandy beaches for nesting, but will use a flat gravel roof of a building. On sunny days the hot tar showing through the gravel can burn the feet of chicks or become stuck in their down.

• Courtship typically takes place removed from the nesting colony site, usually on an exposed tidal flat or beach.

• A group of least terns are collectively known as a "straightness" of terns.

Description