Black-naped Tern

100

Not yet spotted on Fladder

The Black-naped Tern is an elegant, medium-sized tern of tropical coasts, distinguished by its white plumage, pale grey wings, and a thin black line extending from the eye to the nape. It is known for its graceful, buoyant flight and quick dives for small fish. This species often nests colonially on sandy islands.

Where to spot

Widespread across the tropical Indian and Pacific Oceans, from East Africa to Australia and islands of the western Pacific. Inhabits sandy beaches, coral cays, and offshore islands.

How to spot

Identify by its pure white body, pale grey wings, and a distinctive black line from the eye to the nape (not a full cap). Note its slender black bill. Observe its buoyant, often hesitant flight before a swift plunge-dive for fish. Scan sandy islets for nesting colonies.

When to spot

Resident year-round in its tropical range. Breeding occurs at various times depending on the location, often tied to food availability. Best observed during daylight hours when foraging along the coast or at their nesting sites.

Where to spot

Widespread across the tropical Indian and Pacific Oceans, from East Africa to Australia and islands of the western Pacific. Inhabits sandy beaches, coral cays, and offshore islands.