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Presidio of San FranciscoFog over Crissy Field
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Presidio of San Francisco
Forster's Tern
(Sterna forsteri)
 
Forster,s terns
Will Elder, NPS
Forster's Terns at the old Coast Guard pier near Crissy Field.
 

Natural History: The Forster's Tern eats small fish, insects, aquatic invertebrates and frogs. This bird nests near water on the ground in depressions lined with grass, soil or shells. It frequents freshwater and saltwater marshes as well as ponds and lakes.

General Distribution: In the Presidio, this species is found along the coast, particularly off Crissy Field where it displays breeding behavior in the spring.

Frequency: This bird is common throughout the year at the Presidio.

Identifying Characteristics: This moderately-small tern has a orange beak tipped in black. It has a black cap and nape.

Presidio Birds main page

The 6th Army Band during Alpert's service.  

Did You Know?
Herb Alpert, Grammy Award-winning bandleader of the Tijuana Brass, played in the 6th Army Band at the Presidio during the 1950's. Alpert later claimed the structure and discipline of the Army helped him with his music.

Last Updated: February 23, 2008 at 19:20 EST