White-cheeked Tern

100

3 weeks ago

Not yet spotted on Fladder

The White-cheeked Tern is a medium-sized tern with a distinct white patch on its face below the eye, contrasting with its black cap. It is primarily a coastal species of the Indian Ocean, known for its agile flight and graceful plunge-diving for fish. This tern often congregates in noisy colonies.

Where to spot

Found along the coasts of the Red Sea, Arabian Peninsula, Persian Gulf, East Africa, and parts of the Indian Ocean to Southeast Asia. Inhabits sandy beaches, rocky shores, and offshore islands.

How to spot

Look for its black cap, white cheek patch, grey upperparts, and white underparts. In breeding plumage, the bill is black with a yellow tip. Observe its graceful flight and plunge-diving for small fish. Scan coastal areas for resting or nesting flocks.

When to spot

Resident year-round in much of its range, though some populations undertake local migrations. Breeding typically occurs from April to July. Best observed during daylight hours along coastlines.

Where to spot

Found along the coasts of the Red Sea, Arabian Peninsula, Persian Gulf, East Africa, and parts of the Indian Ocean to Southeast Asia. Inhabits sandy beaches, rocky shores, and offshore islands.

How to spot

When to spot

Resident year-round in much of its range, though some populations undertake local migrations. Breeding typically occurs from April to July. Best observed during daylight hours along coastlines.