Black-fronted Tern
Black-fronted Tern
100
1 week ago
Points:
100
The Black-fronted Tern is an elegant freshwater tern endemic to New Zealand. It is characterized by its black cap and forehead, white underparts, and grey upperparts. This species breeds on braided riverbeds and is known for its graceful flight and agile fishing.
Where to spot
Endemic to New Zealand. Breeds on braided riverbeds of the South Island. Non-breeding birds disperse to coastal estuaries and harbors around New Zealand, sometimes reaching Australia.
How to spot
Look for its black cap extending to the bill, white underparts, and grey upperparts. Observe its agile flight over freshwater, dipping to catch insects or small fish. Scan braided riverbeds for nesting birds or coastal estuaries for wintering flocks.
When to spot
Breeding occurs during the austral summer (September-February) on inland rivers. Non-breeding birds are more easily seen along the coast during the austral winter (March-August). Best observed during daylight.
Where to spot
Endemic to New Zealand. Breeds on braided riverbeds of the South Island. Non-breeding birds disperse to coastal estuaries and harbors around New Zealand, sometimes reaching Australia.
How to spot
Look for its black cap extending to the bill, white underparts, and grey upperparts. Observe its agile flight over freshwater, dipping to catch insects or small fish. Scan braided riverbeds for nesting birds or coastal estuaries for wintering flocks.
When to spot
Breeding occurs during the austral summer (September-February) on inland rivers. Non-breeding birds are more easily seen along the coast during the austral winter (March-August). Best observed during daylight.
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Black-fronted Terns are highly reliant on the dynamic braided river systems of New Zealand's South Island for nesting, making them vulnerable to habitat changes.
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Spotted
- Recently spotted
- 346 (Seen in the last 3 months)
- Last spotted
- 1 week ago
Monthly observations
4 observations
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