Little Tern

1 day ago

Spotted

The Little Tern is the smallest tern species, identifiable by its rapid, buoyant flight and a distinctive yellow bill with a black tip. These agile hunters snatch small fish directly from the water's surface.

Where to spot

Found along coastal areas, estuaries, large rivers, and lakes across Europe, Asia, Africa, and Australia. They prefer sandy or shingle beaches for nesting.

How to spot

Its very small size, rapid wingbeats, and yellow bill with a black tip are key identification marks. Look for them hovering over shallow water before darting down to catch prey. Listen for their high-pitched 'kwick' call.

When to spot

Best seen during the breeding season in spring and summer in temperate regions. They are present year-round in tropical parts of their range, with many populations being migratory.

Where to spot

Found along coastal areas, estuaries, large rivers, and lakes across Europe, Asia, Africa, and Australia. They prefer sandy or shingle beaches for nesting.

How to spot

When to spot

Best seen during the breeding season in spring and summer in temperate regions. They are present year-round in tropical parts of their range, with many populations being migratory.

Credits: Door Cory, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=793741

Credits: By MHOvi07 - Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=163377632

Despite their small size, some populations of Little Terns undertake incredibly long migrations, traveling from northern Europe all the way to southern Africa for the winter.

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