Sterna paradisaea
Least Concern
The Arctic Tern is a widespread and beautiful seabird that undertakes a remarkable migration. Drawn by the promise of rich feeding grounds and endless days, these graceful birds fly to opposite ends of the Earth and back each year.
Time of year: Late spring to early summer
Males and females have similar plumage
White
White
Grey
Brighter White
Black, Grey
Black, Grey
White, Black
Black, Grey
Grey
Grey
Grey
Grey
Pointed
Red
Red
Dark
Bright Red
Red
Red
Grey
Red
Black cap, red beak
Similar to male
Mottled plumage, darker beak
Sharper black cap
Deeply forked
Deeply forked
Less forked
More deeply forked
33cm to 39cm
Length
76cm to 85cm
Wingspan
100g to 120g
Weight
Click on an image below to see the full-size version
Adult Arctic Tern standing on a rock with juvenile
Arctic Tern in breeding plumage eating a fish
Arctic Tern in-flight with a fish in its beak
Arctic Tern portrait
Piercing 'kee-arr' sound
Sharp, repetitive, often heard during flight
High-pitched, rapid 'kip-kip-kip'
Foraging, flying over water, often seen hovering
Breeds in colonies, otherwise often solitary
Aggressive during breeding season
Extensive migratory routes between Arctic and Antarctic
Mixes with other terns and seabirds
Small Fish, Insects, Crustaceans
Dives into water for prey, catches insects in flight
Daylight hours, peaking at dawn and dusk
Diving and aerial foraging
Varies seasonally and geographically
None known
Open ground, often on islands or coastal areas
Shallow scrape in soil, little or no material
May to July in Arctic regions
Buff-colored with dark blotches
Medium-sized, oval
Typically 1-3 eggs
22 to 27 days
3 to 4 weeks
Both parents involved in care and feeding
Breeds in Arctic, migrates to Antarctic waters
Open oceans, coasts, and islands
Sea level to low altitude
Extensive migratory routes between Arctic and Antarctic
Marine, Tundra
Polar, Subpolar
Please note, this range and distribution map is a high-level overview, and doesn't break down into specific regions and areas of the countries.