Blue-billed White-tern
NameBlue-billed White-tern
Common NameWhite Tern
Scientific NameGygis alba
FamilyLaridae
Wingspan (cm)80
Length (cm)30
Weight (g)115
Plumage DetailsEntirely pure white plumage, contrasting with large black eyes and a slender, pointed black bill that often has a bluish base. The legs and feet are also bluish-black.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a variety of harsh, grating calls, often described as 'kree-kree' or 'churrr'. They can also make soft purring sounds.
Primary Dietpiscivore
Primary Habitatscoastal
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across tropical and subtropical oceans, including the Pacific, Indian, and South Atlantic Oceans, nesting on remote islands.
Identifying FeaturesPure white plumage, Large black eyes, Slender black bill with blue base, Black legs and feet, Nests on bare branches or rock ledges
Description
This small, pure white seabird is characterized by its large black eyes and a slender, pointed black bill, often with a blue base. They exhibit graceful flight and are unique for nesting on bare branches or rock ledges without building a nest.
