Black Skimmer

Distinguished by black and white plumage, long wings and long, black-tipped, orange bill. The lower bill is longer than the upper.

Additional information

Common Name

Black Skimmer

Comments

Skimmer feeds by flying with its lower bill cutting water; when it feels a fish, the upper bill snaps down. They often fly in flocks. Call resembles a dog’s bark.

Scientific Name

Rynchops niger

Habitat

Coastal, inland lakes.

Size

To 20 in. (50 cm)