Gray-backed Tern
Gray-backed Tern
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The Grey-backed Tern is a medium-sized tern of tropical Pacific and Indian Oceans, characterized by its pale grey upperparts, white underparts, and dark cap. It is a pelagic species, often seen foraging over open ocean far from land. This tern is known for its graceful flight.
Where to spot
Found across the tropical Pacific and Indian Oceans, from Hawaii and the Marquesas to Christmas Island and the Seychelles. Breeds on remote oceanic islands and atolls.
How to spot
Look for its pale grey back and wings, white underparts, black cap, and black bill. Note the paler grey tone compared to Sooty Terns. Observe its graceful, dipping flight as it catches fish from the ocean surface. Requires a boat for good observations.
When to spot
Year-round resident in its tropical island habitats. Breeding activity occurs throughout the year, with regional peaks. Best observed during daylight hours, either offshore during pelagic trips or near remote breeding islands.
Where to spot
Found across the tropical Pacific and Indian Oceans, from Hawaii and the Marquesas to Christmas Island and the Seychelles. Breeds on remote oceanic islands and atolls.
How to spot
Look for its pale grey back and wings, white underparts, black cap, and black bill. Note the paler grey tone compared to Sooty Terns. Observe its graceful, dipping flight as it catches fish from the ocean surface. Requires a boat for good observations.
When to spot
Year-round resident in its tropical island habitats. Breeding activity occurs throughout the year, with regional peaks. Best observed during daylight hours, either offshore during pelagic trips or near remote breeding islands.
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Grey-backed Terns have adapted to nesting in various sheltered locations on islands, including under vegetation, in rock crevices, or even in old burrows, protecting their eggs from predators and sun.
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