Terns are generally associated with marine environments and salt marshes, but the Forster's tern inhabits freshwater areas.

During the breeding season this graceful bird is eastern Oregon's resident small white tern. Typical of terns, the Forster's employs a dramatic hunting method of plunge-diving into shallow waters to capture small fish, the bird sometimes submerging completely.

This is an uncommon but highly visible colonial breeder east of the Cascades.

Hear the call of the Forster's tern

Photo by Dave Budeau, ODFW