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Presidio of San FranciscoFog over Crissy Field
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Presidio of San Francisco
Forster's Tern
(Sterna forsteri)
 
Forster,s terns
Will Elder, NPS
Forster's Terns at the old Coast Guard pier near Crissy Field.
 

Natural History: The Forster's Tern eats small fish, insects, aquatic invertebrates and frogs. This bird nests near water on the ground in depressions lined with grass, soil or shells. It frequents freshwater and saltwater marshes as well as ponds and lakes.

General Distribution: In the Presidio, this species is found along the coast, particularly off Crissy Field where it displays breeding behavior in the spring.

Frequency: This bird is common throughout the year at the Presidio.

Identifying Characteristics: This moderately-small tern has a orange beak tipped in black. It has a black cap and nape.

Presidio Birds main page

The Presidio Forest  

Did You Know?
The Presidio occupies 1,491 acres in northern San Francisco and welcomes over five million visitors annually.

Last Updated: February 23, 2008 at 19:20 EST