Key information
The common tern (Sterna hirundo) is a small to medium-sized seabirds closely related to the gulls, skimmers and skuas and it is strongly migratory, wintering in coastal tropical and subtropical regions. Breeding adults have light grey upperparts, white to very light grey underparts, a black cap, orange-red legs, and a narrow pointed bill.
Length : 32–39 cm 72–83 cm.
Wingspan: 72–83 cm.
Weight :97-146 g
Population : The global population is estimated to number c.1,600,000-3,600,000 individuals
Habitat: close to freshwater or the sea on almost any open flat habitat, including sand or shingle beaches, firm dune areas, salt marsh, or, most commonly, islands.
Diet: Terns often feed in flocks, especially if food is plentiful, and the fishing success rate in a flock is typically about one-third higher than for individuals.
Location
Birds of the Month
