Least Tern (Sternula antillarum), Dairy near Stanfield, Pinal County

This Least Tern was found and photographed by Doug Jenness on 10 August 2020

Rare in Arizona and casual in Pinal Co. An immature LETE is particularly unusual in the state.

Once a casual visitor to Arizona, this species has increased in recent years and the first nesting record for the state was in 2010 in Glendale. It is nearly annual in the Phoenix and Willcox areas in mid May and June. Casual in Pinal County, this is only 3rd report in the county since 2000.  Most records are of adults.

On this tern note the dark carpal bar, yellowish legs, black bill and crown pattern.

10 August 2020, photo by Doug Jenness