The Least Tern (Sterna antillarum) is the smallest American tern, weighing 1 ounce (28 grams) and measuring 9 inches (23 cm) in length. It can be recognized in spring and summer by a white forehead that contrasts with the black on top of its head and back of the neck. Its body is slate grey on top and white below with pointed wings, and a forked tail that is typical of most terns. This tern’s bill and feet are yellow and its wing beats are uniquely fast. The Least Tern breeds in colonies (groups) of up to 200
birds and their nests are scraped in sand, shell or gravel. They usually lay two eggs, with both parents helping to sit on the eggs for twenty-one days.