Back when the Least Terns were caring for their newborn chicks out on Sandy Point Reservation, we all noticed one baby that looked different than the others ... it was lighter ... a pale yellow with no spots at all! Yesterday I went back. The Lighter Least Tern is almost grown up, but still noticeably paler than any other juvenile on the beach. Sadly, the lighter one doesn't seem welcome in the flock. It is excluded by all the other Terns except its mother, who is still feeding it. I was so sorry to see this, but I understand. Tribes don't like those who are different. Its' just life. Here is a shot of the lighter Least Tern going to sleep for the night, alone and away from the other young Terns.
The Lighter Least Tern Asleep, Alone