Tennessee is a landlocked state situated in the southern US. It has a mild climate, with cool winters and warm summers – the west is at a lower elevation than the east, and thus often experiences warmer temperatures. The state boasts a wide variety of habitats, with mountains in the east, fertile plains in Middle Tennessee, and the Gulf Coastal Plain in the west. Many water birds can be found in Tennessee, from ducks and geese to herons and egrets, to large birds of prey.
Tennessee Water Birds
1) Great egret (Ardea alba)
- Native to North, Central, and South America, Europe, Africa, and Asia
- Order: Pelecaniformes
- Family: Ardeidae
- Conservation status: Least concern
The great egret is a tall bird, with a length of 94 – 104 cm (3 ft 1 in – 3 ft 5 in) and a wingspan of 131 – 145 cm (4 ft 4 in – 4 ft 9 in). This bird has a very slender build, with long legs and a graceful, S-shaped neck. Its plumage is pure white, the legs black, and the bill yellow-orange.
Ardea alba is most prevalent in western Tennessee, although it can be seen elsewhere in the state, especially during fall migration. It is rare for individuals to winter or breed within the state. The preferred habitat of this species includes marshes, ponds, and mudflats, with individuals tending to forage in shallow, open water.
2) Wood duck (Aix sponsa)
- Native to North America
- Order: Anseriformes
- Family: Anatidae
- Conservation status: Least concern
The wood duck is around 47 – 54 cm (1 ft 7 in – 1 ft 9 in) in length and has a wingspan of 66 – 73 cm (2 ft 2 in – 2 ft 5 in). This species has a distinctive profile with a long tail and crested head. The coloration of the female is gray-brown with a paler chest, while males display a combination of chestnut breast, white underside, tan sides, and a glossy green head with white stripes across the face.
Aix sponsa commonly breeds in Tennessee, but rarely winters in the state. This species requires dense cover such as shrubs or trees in which to nest – nests are situated in tree cavities and the young are precocial, leaving soon after hatching. The female incubates the eggs alone and tends to the young for several weeks.
3) Double-crested cormorant (Nannopterum auritum)
- Native to North America
- Order: Suliformes
- Family: Phalacrocoracidae
- Conservation status: Least concern
The double-crested cormorant is a large water bird, reaching lengths of 70 – 90 cm (2 ft 4 in – 2 ft 11 in) with a wingspan of 114 – 123 cm (3 ft 9 in – 4 ft). This bird has a slender body, a long neck, and a robust, hooked bill. The plumage is dark brown or black, with deeper mottled brown across the back and wings. There is a patch of yellow skin on the face, and white plumes extend back from the eyes, which are blue.
Nannopterum auritum is commonly found in Middle and West Tennessee, usually seen during spring and fall migration, and as a winter resident. This species can be seen on lakes or rivers, where it forages in relatively shallow water (usually less than 10 meters deep) with numbers increasing rapidly in areas with abundant prey. The diet consists predominantly of fish such as gizzard shad or drum, but also includes crustaceans and amphibians.
4) Pied-billed grebe (Podilymbus podiceps)
- Native to North, Central, and South America
- Order: Podicipediformes
- Family: Podicipedidae
- Conservation status: Least concern
The pied-billed grebe is a very small bird with a length of 30 – 38 cm (1 ft – 1 ft 3 in) and a wingspan of 45 – 62 cm (1 ft 6 in – 2 ft). Individuals are compactly built, with very short tails and thick bills. Pied-billed grebes have brown plumage, slightly darker above with a black throat, and darker patches on the crown and back of the neck. The bill is pale with a dark band around it during breeding season.
Although rare in the summer, Podilymbus podiceps can be seen in Tennessee during winter and migration. This species can generally be seen on ponds and marshes. During the breeding season, courtship takes place on open water, while the nests are constructed amongst emergent vegetation. Adults become highly territorial at this time.
5) Snowy egret (Egretta thula)
- Native to North, Central, and South America
- Order: Pelecaniformes
- Family: Ardeidae
- Conservation status: Least concern
The snowy egret is relatively small for a member of Ardeidae, reaching just 56 – 66 cm (1 ft 10 in – 2 ft 2 in) in length with a wingspan of 100 cm (3 ft 3 in). The plumage of this bird is entirely white, and its legs are black with bright yellow feet – this feature makes this bird very easy to identify! The face displays yellow skin with a black bill.
Egretta thula is found in Tennessee from April to September and is a common breeding bird in the state. This species may be solitary or may forage in groups – research has found that they regularly move on to new foraging sites, often with each new day. Common prey items include fish, insects, and crustaceans.
6) Green heron (Butorides virescens)
- Native to North, Central, and South America
- Order: Pelecaniformes
- Family: Ardeidae
- Conservation status: Least concern
The green heron is much shorter and has a stouter build than most members of Ardeidae; it grows to just 41 – 46 cm (1 ft 4 in – 1 ft 6 in) in length and has a wingspan of 64 – 68 cm (2 ft 1 in – 2 ft 3 in). This bird has striking plumage: the breast is a deep chestnut color, while the back and crown are dark green.
This species can be found in Tennessee during the summer months, usually arriving in March and leaving in November. Individuals feed on fish, snails, tadpoles, frogs, snakes, and crayfish, which they regurgitate for their chicks back at the nest. Females lay 3 – 5 eggs and the young grow fast, tended by both parents for several weeks after hatching.
7) American wigeon (Mareca americana)
- Native to North, Central, and South America
- Order: Anseriformes
- Family: Anatidae
- Conservation status: Least concern
The American wigeon is a compactly built duck with a rounded head and small bill. They range in length between 42 – 59 cm (1 ft 5 in – 1 ft 11 in) and have a wingspan of 84 cm (2 ft 9 in). Females have brown plumage with a gray-brown head and a dark mark around the eye. In contrast, males have a cinnamon-colored body, white rump, and mottled gray neck and head. They have a gleaming white cap and an iridescent green stripe running through the eye, across the face, and down the back of the neck.
Mareca americana is commonly seen in Tennessee during the winter months, as well as on its migratory journeys in spring and fall. This species may be found on marshes, lakes, and in flooded pastures – studies have found that flocks move between habitats to capitalize on available resources.
8) Green-winged teal (Anas crecca)
- Native to North and Central America
- Order: Anseriformes
- Family: Anatidae
- Conservation status: Least concern
The green-winged teal is small, growing to just 31 – 39 cm (1 ft – 1 ft 3 in) in length with a wingspan of 52 – 59 cm (1 ft 8 in – 1 ft 11 in). Females are mottled brown in color, with a subtle yellowish streak in the tail and a slightly darker crown. Males display a gray body with a white stripe on the shoulder, a cinnamon-colored head, and an iridescent green stripe running from the eye to the back of the neck. Both sexes have green secondary wing feathers.
In Tennessee, Anas crecca is most commonly seen on its migratory journeys in spring and fall, and as a winter resident. This species can be found on marshes, rivers, and shallow lakes, where it feeds on seeds, mollusks, insects, and earthworms. Green-winged teals are crepuscular in their feeding habits and tend to spend much of the daytime asleep or preening.
9) Common loon (Gavia immer)
- Native to northern North America
- Order: Gaviiformes
- Family: Gaviidae
- Conservation status: Least concern
The common loon is a large diving bird that grows to lengths of 66 – 91 cm (2 ft 2 in – 3 ft) and has a wingspan of 104 – 131 cm (3 ft 5 in – 4 ft 4 in). This bird has a hefty, sharply pointed bill, and its body is long and sits low in the water. The breeding plumage of this species is unmistakable. The back is spotted with black and white, the chest is patterned with black and white stripes, and the head and bill are black with red eyes.
The best time to spot Gavia immer in Tennessee is during its migratory journeys in spring and fall. Some individuals may also be seen during the winter months, although this is uncommon. This species can be seen on large ponds and lakes – there is evidence to suggest that populations may be affected by water pollution.
10) Hooded merganser (Lophodytes cucullatus)
- Native to North America
- Order: Anseriformes
- Family: Anatidae
- Conservation status: Least concern
The hooded merganser is around 40 – 49 cm (1 ft 4 in – 1 ft 7 in) and has a wingspan of 60 – 66 cm (2 ft – 2 ft 2 in). Females have a gray-brown body with a cinnamon-colored crest, while males display a black back, white front, and chestnut sides. They have a black head and white patch on the crest – the crest is collapsible, but when erect, it makes the head appear large.
Lophodytes cucullatus can be seen all year round in Tennessee, with some populations nesting in the west of the state. The preferred habitat of this species includes wooded lakes, ponds, and rivers. During breeding season, the female lays her eggs in a tree cavity, and the precocial young leave the nest soon after hatching. The downy plumage of the young means that they can only dive underwater for short periods in search of food, with their diving abilities developing as they mature.
11) Bufflehead (Bucephala albeola)
- Native to North America
- Order: Anseriformes
- Family: Anatidae
- Conservation status: Least concern
The bufflehead reaches 32 – 40 cm (1 ft 1 in – 1 ft 4 in) in length and has a wingspan of 55 cm (1 ft 10 in). This bird has a large, rounded head atop a small body, and its dark gray bill is short and wide in shape. Female buffleheads have gray-brown plumage with a white oval on the cheek, while males display a combination of a black back, white body, and a dark iridescent head with a white patch wrapping around the back of it.
Bucephala albeola can be observed in Tennessee between October and April – it never nests within the state. This species occupies lakes, ponds, and rivers, usually selecting areas with shallow water and abundant emergent or floating vegetation. The diet of the bufflehead includes aquatic insects, crustaceans, mollusks, and plant material.
12) Snow goose (Anser caerulescens)
- Native to North America
- Order: Anseriformes
- Family: Anatidae
- Conservation status: Least concern
Anser caerulescens grows to 69 – 83 cm (2 ft 3 in – 2 ft 9 in) in length and has a wingspan of 138 cm (4 ft 6 in). This goose is heavy-bodied with a thick neck, and there are two color morphs: white and blue. The white morph has entirely white plumage, except for black on the wingtips, whereas the blue morph is dark brown in color, with white on the face and under the tail.
The snow goose is most common in western and middle Tennessee, where it can be seen as a migrant and a winter resident. This species resides in grain fields or on lakes and rivers, consuming plant material and insect larvae. Individuals have been found to store protein and fat prior to undergoing spring migration.
13) Cattle egret (Bubulcus ibis)
- Native to North, Central, and South America, Africa, Europe, and Asia
- Order: Pelecaniformes
- Family: Ardeidae
- Conservation status: Least concern
The cattle egret has a very compact build when compared with other members of Ardeidae. This bird is 46 – 56 cm (1 ft 6 in – 1 ft 10 in) in length and has a wingspan of 88 – 96 cm (2 ft 11 in – 3 ft 2 in). Its plumage is entirely white, but during breeding season it develops golden plumes on its back, chest, and head. The bill and legs are yellow.
Bubulcus ibis is most common in western Tennessee, where it resides and nests during the summer months. Females lay 3 – 4 eggs which are incubated by both parents. Often the last chick to hatch fails to survive as its siblings outcompete it for resources. As they increase in size, the young become increasingly aggressive towards each other at feeding time and may even knock their parents over in an attempt to win the food.
14) Tundra swan (Cygnus columbianus)
- Native to North America
- Order: Anseriformes
- Family: Anatidae
- Conservation status: Least concern
The tundra swan is a very large waterbird that reaches 120 – 147 cm (3 ft 11 in – 4 ft 10 in) in length and has a wingspan of 168 cm (5 ft 6 in). This bird has a heavy body and a long neck, which it holds in a very upright, straight position. The plumage of the tundra swan is pure white, and the legs, feet, and bill are black. There may be a yellow spot at the base of the bill.
Cygnus columbianus can be found in Tennessee between November and March, where it is usually located on small lakes and ponds. This species may be affected by loss of habitat due to drainage for agriculture and alterations in wetland practices. Populations are also vulnerable to diseases such as avian influenza.
15) Great blue heron (Ardea herodias)
- Native to North and Central America
- Order: Pelecaniformes
- Family: Ardeidae
- Conservation status: Least concern
The great blue heron is the largest member of Ardeidae in North America, reaching impressive lengths of 97 – 137 cm (3 ft 2 in – 4 ft 6 in) with a wingspan of 167 – 201 cm (5 ft 6 in – 6 ft 7 in). This bird has blue-gray plumage with a white chest and throat, and a black stripe running from the top of the eye into the crest. Its bill is yellow.
Ardea herodias is a permanent resident of Tennessee and can be found throughout the state. It occupies marshes, swamps, and slow-moving rivers, seeking out areas with shallow water and submerged or emergent vegetation. This species has various foraging techniques, such as standing still, wading slowly, or diving into the water – common prey items include fish, frogs, snakes, salamanders, and rodents.
16) American white pelican (Pelecanus erythrorhnchos)
- Native to North and Central America
- Order: Pelecaniformes
- Family: Pelecanidae
- Conservation status: Least concern
The American white pelican is an enormous bird, capable of attaining lengths of 127 – 165 cm (4 ft 2 in – 5 ft 5 in) with a very heavy build. Its wingspan is 244 – 290 cm (8 ft – 9 ft 6 in) and it has a huge bill with a large pouch underneath, and a horn-like projection on top. The plumage of this bird is white with black flight feathers, while the bill and legs are yellow-orange in color.
Pelecanus erythrorhynchos is not thought to nest in Tennessee but is increasing in number in the state, especially during the winter months. This species occupies lakes and marshes, often preferring more open areas to those with cover. American white pelicans have been observed to forage cooperatively, working together in small groups to herd fish and increase their hunting efficiency.
17) Osprey (Pandion haliaetus)
- Worldwide distribution except for Antarctica
- Order: Accipitriformes
- Family: Pandionidae
- Conservation status: Least concern
The osprey is a large bird of prey, reaching 54 – 58 cm (1 ft 9 in – 1 ft 11 in) in length with a wingspan of 150 – 180 cm (4 ft 11 in – 5 ft 11 in). This bird has a slender build, and when viewed in flight its wings form an M-shape. The plumage is white below and dark brown above, and the head is white with a dark brown stripe running through the yellow eye.
The best time to see ospreys in Tennessee is during the summer – they are much less common during migration and overwintering. Historically, ospreys were in decline due to the use of pesticides such as DDT, however, populations have recovered since this was banned. This species can be found near rivers and lakes, where it hunts for fish.
18) Anhinga (Anhinga anhinga)
- Native to North, Central, and South America
- Order: Suliformes
- Family: Anhingidae
- Conservation status: Least concern
The anhinga reaches lengths of 75 – 95 cm (2 ft 6 in – 3 ft 1 in) and has a wingspan of 109 cm (3 ft 7 in). This bird has a slender build, with an S-shaped neck and a long tail. The male anhinga is black with silver-white streaks on the back and wings. Females have a pale tan head, neck, and breast, and are a darker brown on the lower sides of the body.
Anhinga anhinga is rare in Tennessee but is most frequently seen in the west of the state as a migrant and summer resident. This species prefers quiet, wooded ponds or marshes, where it feeds on fish, occasional aquatic insects, and crustaceans. Although the conservation status of the anhinga is that of least concern, populations are decreasing.
19) Belted kingfisher (Megaceryle alcyon)
- Native to North and Central America
- Order: Coraciiformes
- Family: Alcedinidae
- Conservation status: Least concern
The belted kingfisher has a stout build with a large head and short, square-shaped tail. It is 28 – 35 cm (11 in – 1 ft 2 in) in length and has a wingspan of 48 – 58 cm (1 ft 7 in – 1 ft 11 in). This bird has dark blue-gray plumage with a white underside and neck – a blue-gray band runs across the chest. Females can be distinguished by a rusty-colored band on the belly.
Megaceryle alcyon is common throughout Tennessee and is a permanent year-round resident in the state. This species can be found along rivers and streams, utilizing vertical earthen banks in which to construct their nests. Belted kingfishers feed on small fish, as well as crayfish, tadpoles, and aquatic insects.
20) American bittern (Botaurus lentiginosus)
- Native to North America
- Order: Pelecaniformes
- Family: Ardeidae
- Conservation status: Least concern
The American bittern is a stocky heron with a thick neck and a hunched posture. It reaches 60 – 85 cm (2 ft – 2 ft 9 in) in length and has a wingspan of 92 cm (3 ft). This bird has strongly streaked brown, buff, and white plumage which enables it to blend in with its environment.
Botaurus lentiginosus isn’t especially common in Tennessee and is most likely to be seen during migration. This species resides on marshes or reedy lakes, where it consumes a diet of fish, frogs, aquatic insects, crayfish, and salamanders. Individuals forage by wading slowly in shallow water to find fish or standing in wait to catch insects.
21) Common merganser (Mergus merganser)
- Native to North America, Europe, and Asia
- Order: Anseriformes
- Family: Anatidae
- Conservation status: Least concern
The common merganser is 54 – 71 cm (1 ft 9 in – 2 ft 4 in) in length and has a wingspan of 86 cm (2 ft 10 in). This duck has a long body with a slender build, and a narrow, pointed bill. Females have gray bodies with white chests, and their heads are rusty-colored with a shaggy crest. Males are white-bodied with a black back and a dark iridescent green head. The bill is bright red with a dark tip.
This species can be seen in Tennessee between November and April, where it occupies deep lakes and rivers. Individuals often look for fish by swimming at the surface and placing their head underwater, before diving down to catch it. They will also flap their wings after catching a fish, which is thought to assist in swallowing.
22) Redhead (Aythya americana)
- Native to North America
- Order: Anseriformes
- Family: Anatidae
- Conservation status: Least concern
The redhead is a striking-looking duck. It is around 42 – 54 cm (1 ft 5 in – 1 ft 9 in) in length and has a wingspan of 75 – 79 cm (2 ft 6 in – 2 ft 7 in). Male redheads display a gray body, black tail and chest, and a bright cinnamon-colored head, whereas females have a brown body and white throat. The bill is gray with a black tip.
Aythya americana overwinters in Tennessee and can be seen in the state between November and April. This species is a dabbling duck, tipping up in the water to graze on vegetation, usually at depths of about 30 cm (1 ft). Individuals will also consume aquatic insects and mollusks.
23) Ring-necked duck (Aythya collaris)
- Native to North and Central America
- Order: Anseriformes
- Family: Anatidae
- Conservation status: Least concern
The ring-necked duck is compactly built with a long neck. This species grows to lengths of 39 – 46 cm (1 ft 3 in – 1 ft 6 in) and has a wingspan of 62 – 63 cm (2 ft – 2 ft 1 in). Females have warm brown plumage with pale cheeks, with a white patch at the base of the bill and a white ring around the eye. Males are predominantly black, with pale gray sides. The bill is gray with a white base, while the tip is black.
Aythya collaris can be seen in Tennessee during the winter and migratory periods, typically being more abundant in West and Middle Tennessee. This species can be found on lakes, ponds, and in grain fields and wetlands – it consumes a varied diet including earthworms, shrimp, aquatic insects, snails, grasses, and other plant material.
24) Louisiana waterthrush (Parkesia motacilla)
- Native to North America
- Order: Passeriformes
- Family: Parulidae
- Conservation status: Least concern
The Louisiana waterthrush is plump with a thick bill and long, thin legs. This bird is just 15 – 15.5 cm (5.9 – 6.1 in) in length and has a wingspan of 24 – 27 cm (9.5 – 10.6 in). The plumage is dark brown above, and pale cream below with dark streaks – there is a prominent white line above the eye.
Parkesia motacilla breeds in Tennessee, usually arriving in the state in March and leaving in September. This species can be found along brooks or on wooded swamps, where it prefers more open areas with faster-flowing water. Louisiana waterthrushes can be used as bioindicators of ecosystem health, specifically in relation to macroinvertebrate diversity, as they rely on these organisms for sustenance.
25) Greater white-fronted goose (Anser albifrons)
- Native to North America
- Order: Anseriformes
- Family: Anatidae
- Conservation status: Least concern
The greater white-fronted goose reaches lengths of 64 – 81 cm (2 ft 1 in – 2 ft 8 in) and has a wingspan of 135 cm (4 ft 5 in). The plumage of this bird is brown with a white tail, and there is some white mottling towards the rear of the body. The forehead and face in front of the eyes are white, and the bill and legs are bright orange.
This species is most prevalent in Middle and West Tennessee during winter and migration, typically arriving in November and leaving in May. Anser albifrons is quite flexible in its habitat choices, and may be found on marshes, lakes, prairies, and fields – individuals often vary their foraging location depending on the food available; for example, agricultural fields are best exploited in early spring.
26) Killdeer (Charadrius vociferus)
- Native to North, Central, and South America
- Order: Charadriiformes
- Family: Charadriidae
- Conservation status: Least concern
The killdeer is a small bird, attaining lengths of just 20 – 28 cm (7.9 – 11 in) with a wingspan of 46 – 48 cm (1 ft 6 in – 1 ft 7 in). It has a long tail, slender legs, and a short bill. This bird has a brown back and wings, white underside and neck, and a brown head with a white face and white stripe above the eye. There are two black bands across the chest, one of which extends around the back of the neck.
Charadrius vociferus is a permanent, year-round resident in Tennessee, where it resides in fields or on mudflats. This species is ground-nesting, with females usually laying four eggs. If a predator threatens the young, the adults will produce a threat display in which they run towards the predator and then fake an injury. This is to draw the threat away from the young, but it may prove fatal for the adults.
27) Trumpeter swan (Cygnus buccinator)
- Native to North America
- Order: Anseriformes
- Family: Anatidae
- Conservation status: Least concern
The trumpeter swan is enormous, reaching lengths of 138 – 158 cm (4 ft 6 in – 5 ft 2 in) with a wingspan of 203 cm (6 ft 8 in). This bird has a heavy body and a long, thin neck which is held in a very straight, upright position. The plumage is pure white, and the legs, bill, and face are black.
Cygnus buccinator is rare in Tennessee, and any individuals that are spotted are usually present between December and March. This species prefers the open water of lakes or rivers, where it feeds on plant material such as stems, roots, shoots, and leaves. Despite previous persecution, populations of this swan are increasing.
28) Ruddy duck (Oxyura jamaicensis)
- Native to North America
- Order: Anseriformes
- Family: Anatidae
- Conservation status: Least concern
The ruddy duck has a very unique shape, with an upright tail, thick neck, and scoop-shaped bill. This bird is 35 – 43 cm (1 ft 2 in – 1 ft 5 in) in length and has a wingspan of 56 – 62 cm (1 ft 10 in – 2 ft). The plumage of males is chestnut-colored with a black cap and crisp white cheeks, while the bill is bright blue. Females are duller brown with a pale cheek patch.
Oxyura jamaicensis is present in Tennessee between October and May, with sightings being more frequent during migratory periods. This species occupies marshes, ponds, and lakes, preferring open areas with submerged vegetation. Individuals feed on seeds, roots, aquatic insects, mollusks, and crustaceans.
29) Spotted sandpiper (Actitis macularius)
- Native to North, Central, and South America
- Order: Charadriiformes
- Family: Scolopacidae
- Conservation status: Least concern
The spotted sandpiper is around 18 – 20 cm (7.1 – 7.9 in) in length and has a wingspan of 37 – 40 cm (1 ft 3 in – 1 ft 4 in). This bird’s breeding plumage consists of a dark brown back, white underside with dark spots, and an orange bill – outside of breeding season this fades to a gray-brown back, plain white underside, and the bill turns yellow in color.
Actitis macularius is most common in Tennessee during spring and fall migration, although some individuals reside in the state through summer and winter as well. This species can be found along the shores of streams, lakes, and ponds – individuals can be seen leaning forward in shallow water, ready to strike at prey items with their short bill. The diet includes aquatic insects, small fish, and crustaceans.
30) American black duck (Anas rubripes)
- Native to eastern North America
- Order: Anseriformes
- Family: Anatidae
- Conservation status: Least concern
American black ducks are similar in size and shape to mallards. They reach lengths of 54 – 59 cm (1 ft 9 in – 1 ft 11 in) and have a wingspan of 88 – 95 cm (2 ft 11 in – 3 ft 1 in). The plumage of this bird is dark mottled brown, with a slightly paler head and dark yellow-green bill. The secondary flight feathers are iridescent purple, visible in flight.
Anas rubripes is found in Middle and West Tennessee, usually during winter and migration between November and March. This species can be found on marshes, lakes, rivers, and ponds – populations may move around to avoid adverse conditions such as icing of water bodies. American black ducks feed predominantly on plant material but may also consume invertebrates.
31) Red-breasted merganser (Mergus serrator)
- Native to North America and Europe
- Order: Anseriformes
- Family: Anatidae
- Conservation status: Least concern
The red-breasted merganser is a large diving duck, reaching lengths of 51 – 64 cm (1 ft 8 in – 2 ft 1 in) with a wingspan of 66 – 74 cm (2 ft 2 in – 2 ft 5 in). This bird has a unique head, with a shaggy crest and a long, serrated red bill. Females display gray-brown plumage, with a warmer brown head and slightly paler throat. In contrast, males have a cinnamon chest, a black back, white sides, and a black head with a white band around the throat.
Mergus serrator can be seen in Tennessee between November and May, although it is not especially common, particularly over winter. During this time populations tend to occupy large reservoirs or lakes which are resistant to icing over. The diet of this species consists predominantly of fish but also includes crustaceans, amphibians, and aquatic insects. The serrated bill enables the bird to grip slippery prey with ease.
32) Forster’s tern (Sterna forsteri)
- Native to North America
- Order: Charadriiformes
- Family: Laridae
- Conservation status: Least concern
The Forster’s tern is a small, slender seabird that reaches lengths of just 33 – 36 cm (1 ft 1 in – 1 ft 2 in) and has a wingspan of 78 – 80 cm (2 ft 7 in – 2 ft 8 in). During the breeding season, adults display a white underside and gray back, with a black crown, and an orange bill with a black tip. At other times of year, the plumage is much paler with a dark bill and a white crown.
Sterna forsteri is most common in Tennessee during spring and fall migration, where it can be found on lakes and rivers. This species hunts by flying over the water with slow flaps, occasionally hovering over one spot. It predominantly targets small fish, usually in the range of 1 – 10 cm (0.4 – 4 in).
33) Common goldeneye (Bucephala clangula)
- Native to North America, Europe, and Asia
- Order: Anseriformes
- Family: Anatidae
- Conservation status: Least concern
The common goldeneye is a stoutly built duck with a large head. It attains lengths of 40 – 51 cm (1 ft 4 in – 1 ft 8 in) and has a wingspan of 77 – 83 cm (2 ft 6 in – 2 ft 9 in). Female goldeneyes have grayish plumage which is darker across the back, and their heads are chocolate brown. Males, on the other hand, display white bodies, a black back and tail, and a dark, iridescent head with white cheek patches.
The best time to observe Bucephala clangula in Tennessee is during spring and fall migration, although some individuals may remain throughout winter as well. Over the winter months, this species may struggle due to a lack of resources combined with harsh environmental conditions – males in particular may become territorial over foraging sites.
34) Bonaparte’s gull (Chroicocephalus philadelphia)
- Native to North America
- Order: Charadriiformes
- Family: Laridae
- Conservation status: Least concern
The Bonaparte’s gull is small and tern-like in appearance; it grows to 28 – 30 cm (11 in – 1 ft) in length with a wingspan of 90 – 100 cm (2 ft 11 in – 3 ft 3 in). During breeding season, adults have white plumage and gray wings, with large white triangles at the wingtips. The head, tail, and bill are black, and the legs are red. Non-breeding adults are overall duller in coloration and lack the black head, instead having just a small gray patch on the cheek.
Because Chroicocephalus philadelphia is seen in Tennessee during winter and migration, it is only seen in its non-breeding plumage in the state. This species resides on large rivers and lakes, where it forages by dipping or plunging into the water. Individuals consume small prey items, such as fish, crustaceans, and insects.
35) Tricolored heron (Egretta tricolor)
- Native to North, Central, and South America
- Order: Pelecaniformes
- Family: Ardeidae
- Conservation status: Least concern
The tricolored heron is medium-sized, attaining lengths of 60 – 70 cm (2 ft – 2 ft 4 in) with a wingspan of 95 cm (3 ft 1 in). This bird has a very slender build, with a long thin neck and delicate head. Tricolored herons have blue-gray and lavender-colored plumage, with a white underside and a white throat. The bill is yellow with a black tip, and there is some yellow skin on the face in front of the eye.
Egretta tricolor is a very rare visitor to Tennessee, but occasional sightings have been noted in spring, summer, and fall. It can be found on lakes, rivers, and ponds, where it hunts by either standing very still in wait or disturbing and chasing its prey. Common prey items include fish, crustaceans, insects, and amphibians.
36) Cackling goose (Branta hutchinsii)
- Native to North America and Asia
- Order: Anseriformes
- Family: Anatidae
- Conservation status: Least concern
The cackling goose is similar in appearance to the Canada goose, but is smaller, reaching just 63 – 65 cm (2 ft 1 in – 2 ft 2 in) in length. It has a wingspan of 108 – 111 cm (3 ft 7 in – 3 ft 8 in) and is compactly built with a short neck. The plumage is brown, with white underneath the tail, a black tail tip, black head and neck, and a white throat strap and collar.
Branta hutchinsii is a rare winter visitor to Tennessee and is often found amongst flocks of Canada geese. It can be found in a great variety of habitats, including wetlands, lakes, agricultural fields, and city ponds. The diet of this species is composed entirely of plant material such as stems, shoots, and grains.
37) Peregrine falcon (Falco peregrinus)
- Found worldwide except for extreme polar regions and New Zealand
- Order: Falconiformes
- Family: Falconidae
- Conservation status: Least concern
The peregrine falcon is relatively short in length, reaching just 36 – 49 cm (1 ft 2 in – 1 ft 7 in), but has enormous wings that can span 100 – 110 cm (3 ft 3 in – 3 ft 7 in). This species has blue-gray plumage above and is paler cream or white below with dark bars across the chest. The head is dark, with a white mark on each side, and the bill is yellow.
Falco peregrinus is listed as state-endangered in Tennessee, and there are very few breeding pairs within the state. Migrants can be seen in the state between September and October. This species is adaptable in terms of habitat and can be found over open country, as well as cities.
