Arctic Tern
NameArctic Tern
Common NameArctic Tern
Scientific NameSterna paradisaea
FamilyLaridae
Wingspan (cm)76
Length (cm)35
Weight (g)110
Plumage DetailsAdult breeding plumage features a black cap extending to the nape, a bright red bill, white cheeks, and a white throat. The upperparts are pale grey, contrasting with white underparts and a deeply forked white tail with grey outer webs.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a harsh, grating 'kree-arr' or 'keer-aah' call, often given when disturbed or defending nests. They also produce a sharper 'kip' or 'kik' call.
Primary Dietpiscivore
Primary Habitatscoastal, tundra, islands, open ocean
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds in Arctic and sub-Arctic regions across North America, Europe, and Asia, and migrates to Antarctic waters for the non-breeding season, covering an annual round trip of up to 70,000 km.
Identifying Featuresblack cap, red bill, deeply forked tail, grey upperparts, white underparts, longest migration of any bird
Description
The Arctic Tern is a medium-sized seabird renowned for its epic annual migration, the longest of any bird species. It has a sleek, graceful appearance, often seen plunge-diving for fish in coastal and open ocean environments.
