African Skimmer

Fairly common, localised resident. A black and white tern-like bird with distinctive bill structure; this and feeding action diagnostic. Immature has streaked forehead, buff-edged feathers on upper parts and blackish bill with red base. Less black that [Black Skimmer]. Call is a harsh, lapwing-like ‘krreh’ or ‘kweh’ repeated. Feeds by flying low over the water’s surface in a skimming action with the long lower, extending 2-3 cm beyond the upper mandible, immersed in the water. Rests on sandbanks. Small flocks on large permanent rivers, lakes and lagoons.