Arctic Tern

Scientific name: Sterna paradisaea

Did you know: Arctic Terns undertake one of the longest migrations of any animal on Earth, flying from the UK all the way to Antarctica and back again each year!

What Do Arctic Terns Look Like? (how to identify them)

Arctic Terns are small and slender, with a graceful appearance characterised by angular wings and long tail streamers.

They display a predominantly grey and white plumage, featuring a striking black cap during the breeding season. These birds are easily recognisable by their blood-red bill and short red legs, which contrast vividly against their light body.

Differences Between Male and Female Arctic Terns

Males and females are largely similar in appearance, making it challenging to distinguish between them based solely on external features.

Both sexes share the same colouration and size, embodying the species’ distinctive sleek and streamlined look.

What Do Arctic Terns Eat?

Primarily, Arctic Terns feed on fish, but their diet also includes crustaceans and insects.

These proficient hunters excel in plunge-diving to snatch their prey from near the water’s surface, showcasing remarkable agility and precision.

Where Do Arctic Terns Live? (inc. migration info)

Arctic Terns are the epitome of long-distance migrants, breeding in the Arctic and spending winters in the Antarctic.

In the UK, they mainly nest on sand and shingle beaches along the coast and are seen around most coastal areas during migration. Their annual journey astonishingly covers distances between 44,000 to 59,000 miles, showcasing their incredible endurance and navigational skills.

Arctic tern chick 2

Bird Calls & Songs (the unique voices of Arctic Terns)

The calls of Arctic Terns are sharp and piercing. They are particularly vocal around their nesting sites, where they emit a series of high-pitched cries to communicate with their mates and ward off intruders.

Their vocalisations are essential for maintaining territory and coordinating with their colony.

Fun Arctic Tern Facts (kid friendly)

Arctic Terns experience more daylight annually than any other creature due to their extensive migratory pattern.
These birds can live for over 30 years, traversing immense distances across the globe throughout their lives.
They are fiercely protective of their young, often dive-bombing any threats to their nests with their sharp bills.
During winter, they spend time resting on ice floes, rarely flying while they moult their wing feathers.
With their bright red bill and feet, they are one of the most strikingly coloured terns.
They are more oceanic than most tern species, spending a significant part of their life at sea, far from land.
Arctic Terns are adept at catching fish by diving from the air into the water.
The largest UK colonies are found in places like the Farne Islands and the Northern Isles.
Besides fish, they occasionally snack on small marine creatures like crustaceans.

Arctic Tern Video

Facts About The Arctic Tern

Diet: Fish is the main thing they eat, but they also eat crustaceans and insects.
Length: 32 - 35cm
Wingspan: 75 - 86cm
Weight: 95 - 125g
Scientific Name: Sterna paradisaea