Arctic Tern
Image: <a href="//commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:AWeith" title="User:AWeith">AWeith</a> (CC BY-SA 4.0)
NameArctic Tern
Common NameArctic Tern
Scientific NameSterna paradisaea
FamilyLaridae
Wingspan (cm)80
Length (cm)36
Weight (g)100
Plumage DetailsAdults have a black cap, white underparts, and pale grey upperparts. The wings have a dark trailing edge, and the tail is deeply forked. The bill and legs are bright red.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a sharp, grating 'kree-ah' call, often given as an alarm, and a rapid 'kik-kik-kik' series, especially when agitated or defending a nest.
Primary Dietpiscivore
Primary Habitatscoastal, tundra, islands, open ocean
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds in Arctic and sub-Arctic regions across Europe, Asia, and North America. Migrates to Antarctic waters for the non-breeding season, covering an annual round trip of approximately 70,000 km.
Identifying FeaturesBlack cap, White body and deeply forked tail, Pale grey upperparts, Bright red bill and legs, Long, pointed wings with dark trailing edge, Aggressive dive-bombing behavior when nesting
Description
The Arctic Tern is a medium-sized seabird known for its aggressive defense of offspring, often performing quick drop-downs on intruders. It undertakes the longest migratory journey of any bird, traveling from the Arctic to the Antarctic and back each year.
