White-winged Tern

1 week ago

Points: 80

Spotted

A striking marsh tern, the White-winged Tern (or White-winged Black Tern) is particularly distinctive in breeding plumage with its black body, contrasting white wings, and bright red legs and bill. It is highly active, often hawking insects over wetlands.

Where to spot

Inhabits freshwater marshes, lakes, and flooded areas across Eastern Europe, Asia, Africa, and Australia.

How to spot

In breeding plumage, the combination of a black body, white wings, and red bill/legs is unmistakable. In non-breeding plumage, look for a generally pale appearance with distinct dark patches behind the eye and on the carpal joint. Observe its erratic and agile flight pattern over water.

When to spot

Best observed during their breeding season from spring to summer in temperate regions. They are migratory, often passing through various regions during spring and autumn migration.

Where to spot

Inhabits freshwater marshes, lakes, and flooded areas across Eastern Europe, Asia, Africa, and Australia.

How to spot

When to spot

Best observed during their breeding season from spring to summer in temperate regions. They are migratory, often passing through various regions during spring and autumn migration.

Credits: By Ron Knight from Seaford, East Sussex, United Kingdom - White-winged Tern (Chilidonias leucopterus), CC BY 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=74706191

Credits: Wikimedia Commons

The White-winged Tern's stunning breeding plumage, featuring a dramatic contrast between its black body and white wings, makes it one of the most visually distinctive terns in the world.

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