Little Tern

Overview

The little tern is a small seabird in the family Laridae, widely distributed across Europe, Asia, north and west Africa, and eastern Australia. It is classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.

Identification

• Small tern, 21–25 cm long with a 41–47 cm wingspan.
• Thin, sharp bill that is yellow with a black tip in breeding plumage, turning fully black in winter; legs are also yellow.
• Distinguished by a white forehead in breeding plumage, which becomes more extensive in winter.
• Produces a loud, distinctive creaking call.

Habitat

Breeds in colonies on gravel or shingle coasts, islands, and inland waterways across temperate and tropical Europe, Asia, north and west Africa, and eastern Australia. Winters in subtropical and tropical oceans as far south as South Africa and New Zealand.

Diet

Feeds by plunge-diving for fish in coastal saline environments or along larger inland rivers. The offering of fish by the male to the female is part of the courtship display.

Did you know?

Like all white terns, it is highly defensive of its nest and young and will attack intruders.