Gull-billed Terns at Imperial Beach

I've seen Gull-billed Terns only 10 times in my life. My first three were at the Salton Sea in 1978, 1982, and 1983. I saw them on a visit to North Carolina in 2005. And then I saw a couple in Sonora, Mexico in 2007.

After moving to San Diego in fall 2013 I've seen them 5 times now--all in June and July at the south end of San Diego Bay and at the mouth of the Tijuana River. Shorebirds might be found in July, but otherwise this time of year is not too productive for birds in these areas. You almost have to choose this as a birding destination in summer specifically to hope for Gull-billed Terns.

I chose the beach at the end of Seacoast Drive in Imperial Beach specifically for Marlene--she likes the generally uncrowded beach and the chance to find sea shells. And it has been quite hot this July, without break. The cooler beach temperature was a great respite. Close views of Gull-billed Terns working the surf was a great bonus!

Gull-billed Tern. Imperial Beach, California. July 29, 2018.

1/1250 f/7.1 @400mm ISO 250

Juvenile Gull-billed Tern.

According to the San Diego County Bird Atlas (2004. Philip Unitt) Gull-billed Terns are a new arrival to the county. The first was recorded in 1985. Breeding ensued in 1987. By 2003 there were 32-37 breeding pairs. I'm not sure of the current population, but it may not be much more than that now (59 pairs 2010 Patton in lit). Interestingly, the entire northwestern Mexican and California population was about 600 pairs according to a survey published in 2003. Other subspecies are found nearly around the world at mid-latitudes.