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Step 1
Spot a Black Skimmer in its preferred habitat and range. In the summer months, you might see Black Skimmers along the coasts of the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico from Massachusetts south to Florida and over to Texas. In the winter months, Black Skimmers live near the southern Atlantic Coast from Virginia southward, along the Gulf of Mexico and in Central and South America.
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Step 2
Observe the Black Skimmer's size. Ranging in size from 16 to 20 inches, the Black Skimmer is a medium-sized water bird. They have a wingspan ranging from 42 to 50 inches and weigh between 7 ½ and 16 oz. Male Black Skimmers are slightly larger than females.
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Step 3
Take note of the distinctive appearance of the Black Skimmer. This bird has black upperparts, including a black cap, and white underparts. The Black Skimmer has short, red legs and long, pointed wings. Their fork-shaped tails contain white feathers with black central feathers. The distinctive, thin bill has a black colored tip and a red colored back end, and the lower half of the bill is longer than the upper half. Females have smaller bills than males.
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Step 4
Listen to the call of the Black Skimmer that resembles a loud barking sound. This call consists of either a single note or a series of repeating notes.
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Step 5
Watch the Black Skimmer's behavior. During flight, the Black Skimmer flies gracefully and directly. When foraging, it flies low over the water's surface dragging its open bill through the water in search for food.
