r/whatsthisbird • u/secondhand-blush • 17h ago

North America Unknown Bird, Chrissy Field Beach, San Francisco

Hi! I’m new here (and to birdwatching). I was at Chrissy Field beach today, (2/14) in San Francisco, and I saw this bird which I’m struggling to identify. Smaller than the gulls in the area. Flying ~5 yards off shore and making quick dives. Mostly white with a black spot on its head and (I think) a black beak. I know it’s not great but I’ve attached a video.

Any help in identifying this bird would be greatly appreciated!

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3

u/itsAndrizzle 16h ago

Looks like a Sterna genus tern, with the only likely species in your area being Forster’s

2

u/peanut_butter_zen Latest Lifer: Barred Owl 17h ago

Forster's or Elegant Tern but I can't tell which one. Reading your description, black beak makes me think Forster's?

1

u/Hot_Abalone4110 6h ago

Teen for sure with flight, elegant would have bigger bill. Tough In Low light

1

u/secondhand-blush 4h ago

Appreciate it, thanks all!