Inca Tern
Inca Tern
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1 week ago
Points:
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The Inca Tern is a strikingly beautiful and unmistakable seabird found along the Humboldt Current coast of South America. It is recognized by its dark slate-grey plumage, white moustache-like plumes, and bright red bill and feet. This social bird nests colonially on cliffs.
Where to spot
Found along the Pacific coast of Peru and Chile, primarily within the influence of the cold Humboldt Current. Inhabits rocky shores, cliffs, and offshore islands.
How to spot
Easy to identify by its unique appearance: dark body, white moustache, and bright red bill and feet. Look for it flying gracefully along rocky coastlines, sometimes perching on cliffs or fishing boats. Observe their distinctive high-pitched calls.
When to spot
Resident year-round in its coastal range. Breeding occurs throughout much of the year, with peaks varying regionally. Best observed during daylight hours, either flying along the coast or at their cliff-nesting colonies.
Where to spot
Found along the Pacific coast of Peru and Chile, primarily within the influence of the cold Humboldt Current. Inhabits rocky shores, cliffs, and offshore islands.
How to spot
Easy to identify by its unique appearance: dark body, white moustache, and bright red bill and feet. Look for it flying gracefully along rocky coastlines, sometimes perching on cliffs or fishing boats. Observe their distinctive high-pitched calls.
When to spot
Resident year-round in its coastal range. Breeding occurs throughout much of the year, with peaks varying regionally. Best observed during daylight hours, either flying along the coast or at their cliff-nesting colonies.
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 Inca Tern uses its distinctive white facial plumes in courtship displays, with larger, more prominent plumes indicating a healthier and more attractive mate.
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