Birds
File:Sterna striata, Kaiaua, Firth Of Thames, Waikato, New Zealand 3.jpg

White-fronted Tern

White-fronted Tern

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The White-fronted Tern is a common and widespread tern of New Zealand and parts of Australia, characterized by its white forehead and black cap. It is an agile flyer and a skilled plunge-diver, feeding on small fish and invertebrates. This species is often seen in large coastal flocks.
Where to spot
Endemic to New Zealand, breeding widely around the North and South Islands. Non-breeding birds disperse along the coasts of Australia, especially Tasmania. Found on sandy beaches, estuaries, and offshore islands.
How to spot
Look for its distinct white forehead patch contrasting with a black cap, grey upperparts, and white underparts. Note its long, pointed black bill. Observe its buoyant flight, often hovering before plunge-diving for fish. Scan coastal areas for large resting or breeding flocks.
When to spot
Breeding occurs during the austral spring and summer (September-February). Non-breeding birds are more widespread along Australian coasts during the austral winter. Best observed during daylight hours along coastlines.
File:Sterna striata, Kaiaua, Firth Of Thames, Waikato, New Zealand 3.jpg
File:Sterna striata 257532308.jpg
File:Sterna striata 57066188.jpg
File:Sterna striata on Paratahi Island.jpg
File:White-fronted Tern (Sterna striata) (8079598995).jpg
File:White-fronted terns (Sterna striata) at Takapuna.jpg
File:White Fronted Tern (Sterna striata) Maori, Tara.jpg
File:White Fronted Tern (Sterna striata) Maori, Tara (6).jpg
File:Sterna striata, Kaiaua, Firth Of Thames, Waikato, New Zealand 3.jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
File:Sterna striata 257532308.jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
File:Sterna striata 57066188.jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
File:Sterna striata on Paratahi Island.jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
File:White-fronted Tern (Sterna striata) (8079598995).jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
File:White-fronted terns (Sterna striata) at Takapuna.jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
File:White Fronted Tern (Sterna striata) Maori, Tara.jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
File:White Fronted Tern (Sterna striata) Maori, Tara (6).jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
White-fronted Terns are known for forming very dense breeding colonies, sometimes with thousands of birds nesting closely together on sandy beaches or small islands.
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