ML636900907

Observation details

medium sized tern with white body, silvery wings, and dark orange bill. in very specific light the bill almost looked red - which for a moment made me consider that it was a common tern, but the body color convinced me otherwise). both in various degrees of molting into breeding plumage but had most of their black cap. would alternate between roosting on a twig just out of water and patrolling the water by air. occasionally dove into the water. occasionally called, but not often (audio attached but unfortunately some dirt bikes came by at the exact same time). occasionally spared with a belted Kingfisher and fish crow. located in the north east corner of the lake past new hill Holleman road bridge (35.6373571, -78.9010536). at location observed, absolutely requires marine vehicle (boat, pwc, kayak, etc.) - but in my experience will eventually come by the upper boat ramp.