Common Tern
NameCommon Tern
Common NameCommon Tern
Scientific NameSterna hirundo
FamilyLaridae
Wingspan (cm)80
Length (cm)33
Weight (g)120
Plumage DetailsAdult breeding plumage features a solid black cap, white cheeks and throat, pale grey upperparts, and white underparts. The bill is bright red with a distinct black tip, and the legs are red. The outer primary flight feathers are dark, creating a noticeable dark wedge on the underwing in flight.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a sharp, grating 'kee-arr' or 'kirri-kirri-kirri' alarm call, often given in flight or when disturbed near nesting sites.
Primary Dietpiscivore
Primary Habitatscoastal, wetland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds across temperate and subarctic regions of Europe, Asia, and North America. It undertakes long-distance migrations, wintering in tropical and subtropical coastal areas globally, including South America, Africa, and Australia.
Identifying FeaturesBlack cap, Red bill with black tip, Deeply forked tail, Grey upperparts and white underparts, Dark outer primary feathers, Buoyant, agile flight
Description
The Common Tern is a medium-sized seabird known for its graceful, buoyant flight and agile diving for fish. It typically has a black cap, a red bill with a black tip, and a deeply forked tail, often seen hovering over water before plunging to catch prey.
