Marsh terns at Mai Po

The marsh terns are a number of species whose preferred habitat is inland marshes or brackish waters. Two species in particular stop over in Hong Kong on spring passage and can often be seen at the fishponds along the 'approach road' to Mai Po Nature Reserve, Tam Kon Chau Road, in April and May. Whiskered Terns occur in large flocks, often together with White-winged Terns, as was the case today when a lone White-winged Tern deposed a Whiskered Tern from its top perch. Although both species are dark, the all-black head and mantle distinguish the White-winged Terns (also known as White-winged Black Terns).

Posted on April 24, 2021 12:56 PM by stephenmatthews