Arctic Tern
Image: Alfie Benbow (cc-by-nc)
NameArctic Tern
Common NameArctic Tern
Scientific NameSterna paradisaea
FamilyLaridae
Wingspan (cm)80
Length (cm)36
Weight (g)100
Plumage DetailsAdult Arctic Terns have pale grey upperparts, white underparts, and a distinctive black cap that extends to the nape. Their bill and legs are bright red during the breeding season, and they possess a deeply forked tail with long outer streamers.
Vocalization / CallTheir vocalizations include a sharp, grating 'kree-ah' or 'keer-ree' call, often given when disturbed or during courtship displays. They also emit a rapid, chattering alarm call when predators are near their nesting sites.
Primary Dietpiscivore
Primary Habitatscoastal, tundra, islands, open ocean
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds in Arctic and subarctic regions across North America, Europe, and Asia. It undertakes an epic annual migration to the Antarctic Ocean for the non-breeding season, covering an estimated 70,000-80,000 km round trip.
Identifying Featuresblack cap, red bill (breeding), deeply forked tail, grey upperparts, white underparts, long-distance migration
Description
The Arctic Tern is a medium-sized seabird famous for undertaking the longest migratory journey of any bird, traveling from the Arctic to the Antarctic and back each year. It exhibits a graceful, buoyant flight and is often seen hovering before diving for fish. This species breeds in colonies in northern regions and spends its non-breeding season in the southern oceans.
