Black-bellied Tern
Black-bellied Tern
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The Black-bellied Tern is a distinctive tern of the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia, named for its black belly in breeding plumage. It is primarily a freshwater species, found along large rivers and lakes. This species is an agile flyer, skillfully catching fish from the water's surface.
Where to spot
Found across the Indian subcontinent and parts of Southeast Asia, including India, Pakistan, Nepal, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Thailand, and Cambodia. Inhabits large freshwater rivers, lakes, and reservoirs, often with exposed sandbars.
How to spot
Look for its black cap, black belly (breeding plumage), grey upperparts, and yellow bill. The black belly fades to white in non-breeding plumage. Observe its graceful flight and shallow plunge-dives for fish. Scan sandbars and islands for resting or nesting birds.
When to spot
Resident year-round in much of its range, with local movements tied to water levels. Breeding typically occurs during the dry season (March-June) when river sandbars are exposed. Best observed during daylight hours along rivers and large water bodies.
Where to spot
Found across the Indian subcontinent and parts of Southeast Asia, including India, Pakistan, Nepal, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Thailand, and Cambodia. Inhabits large freshwater rivers, lakes, and reservoirs, often with exposed sandbars.
How to spot
Look for its black cap, black belly (breeding plumage), grey upperparts, and yellow bill. The black belly fades to white in non-breeding plumage. Observe its graceful flight and shallow plunge-dives for fish. Scan sandbars and islands for resting or nesting birds.
When to spot
Resident year-round in much of its range, with local movements tied to water levels. Breeding typically occurs during the dry season (March-June) when river sandbars are exposed. Best observed during daylight hours along rivers and large water bodies.
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
The black belly of this tern is a unique feature among river terns in its range, making it relatively easy to identify during the breeding season.
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