The silvery-grey and white Common Tern (Sterna hirundo) have long tails which have earned them the nickname 'sea-swallow'. Unlike many larger terns, the Common Tern does not have a crest. It has narrow, pointed wings, long forked tail and long, pointed bill. The bill is bright red with a dark tip, which is often gone by July, and the legs are red. However, in the non-breeding season, this tern has black legs, a black bill, and a white forehead. The body is grey above and white below, dark cap to head.
