Black-naped Tern
NameBlack-naped Tern
Common NameBlack-naped Tern
Scientific NameSterna sumatrana
FamilyLaridae
Wingspan (cm)55
Length (cm)32.5
Weight (g)105
Plumage DetailsAdults have a white body with pale grey upperwings and back. A prominent black stripe extends from the eye to the nape, giving the bird its name. The bill is black, and the legs are black.
Vocalization / CallIts calls are typically sharp, high-pitched 'kik-kik' or 'kirrick' notes, often given in flight or when disturbed.
Primary Dietpiscivore
Primary Habitatscoastal
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound across tropical and subtropical coastal regions of the Indian and Pacific Oceans, from the Andaman Sea east to Australia and the western Pacific islands.
Identifying Featuresblack nape and eye-stripe, white body and underparts, pale grey upperwings, black bill, deeply forked tail
Description
This elegant medium-sized tern is characterized by its distinctive black nape and eye-stripe, contrasting with its otherwise white body and pale grey upperparts. It is typically found foraging over shallow coastal waters, plunge-diving for small fish.
