Arctic and Common Terns, Larimer County

[Nick Komar]

Acting on a tip from Cole Wild, Austin Hess, Michael Costello and myself were able to refind an Arctic Tern and two Common Terns among a small pod of larger Forster's Terns yesterday May 14 at 6:30 pm at the south end of Boyd Lake in Loveland. We viewed the roosting terns (search carefully among the emergent vegetation if the terns are not flying around) from the southeast corner. We parked at a pullout at the end of Frank St. off Boyd Lake Rd. (East of the lake - no fee area). Please respect the no trespass signs. Because we respected the signs, we were invited by the property caretaker to walk onto the private property. However, our best views (through telescopes) were achieved from the pullout. I think the Arctic Tern may not be in full breeding plumage yet as the small bill appeared dark, I thought I could make out a weak carpal bar on the resting bird, and Cole thought he noted some white feathers still visible on the forehead. When foraging, the terns may be seen anywhere on the lake. Best morning viewing will be from the east side (no fee) and in the afternoon from the west side (state park - fee area).

Nick Komar
Fort Collins CO

Sent from my iPhone