Caspian terns living in the Columbia River estuary along the border of Washington and Oregon are being unfairly targeted for the decline of endangered wild salmon in the Pacific Northwest.

At nearly a foot-and-a-half long, Caspian terns (Sterna caspia) are the largest species of terns in the world. The gull-like birds have white underneath, pale gray backs, black caps on their heads and distinctive coral red bills.

These social birds nest in large colonies on flat, rocky islands, beaches and sparsely vegetated coastal areas. Their diet consists almost entirely of fish such as salmon, herring, perch, smelt and occasionally crayfish or insects.

Documents

Backgrounders

Caspian Tern Management in the Columbia River Estuary - US Fish and Wildlife Backgrounder

Caspian Terns - Defenders of Wildlife Backgrounder

Statement Concerning Caspian Terns and other Piscivorous Birds in the Columbia River Basin to the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works - American Bird Conservancy