Sandwich Tern
Thalasseus sandvicensis
Tap image to enlarge · Wikimedia Commons
Overview
Sandwich Terns are the largest common tern on the Sefton Coast, regularly seen fishing just offshore at Formby. They have a shaggy black crest and a distinctive yellow-tipped black bill. The harsh 'kirrick' call is unmistakeable. They plunge-dive from height into the sea for sand eels and small fish.
At a Glance
| Order | Charadriiformes |
| Family | Laridae |
| Habitat | Open sea · Sandy beach · Coastal lagoon |
| Diet | Sand eels, sprats — caught by high-altitude plunge-diving |
| UK population | Around 10,000 breeding pairs in the UK |
| Sefton Coast | Regular passage visitor; good numbers offshore at Formby in summer |
| Conservation | UK Amber List |
Where to See It
Formby and Ainsdale beaches. Offshore over the sea. Marshside lagoons on passage.
Identification
Large tern. Shaggy black crest (flattens in winter). Black bill with yellow tip — distinctive. Pale grey above, white below. Loud kirrick call.
Viewing & Photography Tips
Stand on Formby Beach on a summer morning and scan offshore. They're usually the biggest tern visible.
Conservation Status
UK Amber List
This species is on the UK Amber List for Birds (BoCC5), indicating moderate concern. Population monitoring and habitat management remain important for its continued recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I identify a Sandwich Tern?
Sandwich Tern is the largest common tern and identifiable by its black bill with a yellow tip — visible at reasonable range. The shaggy black crest and loud 'kirrick' call are also distinctive. It plunge-dives from greater heights than Common or Arctic Terns.
Related Species
Plan your visit to the Sefton Coast
Marshside RSPB, Formby pinewoods, Ainsdale NNR — practical guides to getting there, what to bring, and the best spots for each season.