Aleutian Tern

100

Not yet spotted on Fladder

The Aleutian Tern is a medium-sized tern with a distinctive black cap, white forehead, and dark grey underparts during breeding season. It is a highly migratory species, undertaking long journeys between its northern breeding grounds and southern wintering areas. This tern is known for its elegant, agile flight.

Where to spot

Breeds on coastal tundra and islands in Alaska and eastern Siberia. Migrates south to winter along the coasts of Southeast Asia, Indonesia, and Australia.

How to spot

Look for its black cap, white forehead band, dark grey underparts (in breeding plumage), and long, forked tail. Observe its buoyant flight and graceful dives for fish. In non-breeding plumage, it is paler and can be harder to distinguish from other terns.

When to spot

Best observed during the breeding season (May-July) in its northern range or during migration (August-October and April-May) along coastal stopover sites. Wintering birds can be seen from November to March in Southeast Asia and Australia.

Where to spot

Breeds on coastal tundra and islands in Alaska and eastern Siberia. Migrates south to winter along the coasts of Southeast Asia, Indonesia, and Australia.

How to spot

When to spot

Credits: Wikimedia Commons

The breeding range of the Aleutian Tern is one of the most restricted among terns, primarily confined to specific coastal areas of Alaska and eastern Siberia.

Spotted Information Sounds Comments