Saunders's Tern
NameSaunders's Tern
Common NameSaunders's Tern
Scientific NameSternula saundersi
FamilyLaridae
Wingspan (cm)48
Length (cm)22
Weight (g)50
Plumage DetailsAdults have a distinct black cap extending to the nape, a contrasting white forehead, and a yellow bill with a black tip. The upperparts are pale grey, while the underparts are pure white. The outer primary feathers are dark, and the legs are yellowish.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include sharp, high-pitched 'kik' or 'kir-ik' calls, often given during flight or when disturbed, and a more drawn-out 'kree-ah' call.
Primary Dietpiscivore
Primary Habitatscoastal, wetland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound along the coasts of the Red Sea, Arabian Peninsula, East Africa, and South Asia, including India and Sri Lanka.
Identifying Featuressmall size, black cap, white forehead, yellow bill with black tip, pale grey upperparts, deeply forked tail
Description
A small tern species, Saunders's Tern is characterized by its agile flight and habit of plunge-diving for fish. It typically inhabits coastal areas, including sandy beaches and mudflats, where it forages and nests.
