Gull-billed Tern

Gelochelidon nilotica is a broad-winged tern that has colonised New Zealand in very small numbers. It differs from Caspian tern through its smaller size, shorter legs and thick black gull-like bill. Adults have a black breeding cap, pale grey back and white body. The stout entirely black bill is the key feature.

It occurs locally around northern estuaries and has bred irregularly in New Zealand. Open tidal flats, lagoons and nearby pasture are used. Unlike most terns, it often hunts insects, crabs, lizards and small animals over land. It also takes aquatic prey from shallow water.

The New Zealand classification is Coloniser. Kaipara Harbour and Pūkorokoro Miranda offer possible sightings, but birds are scarce.