The Yellow-billed Tern is a small, elegant tern of South America, named for its bright yellow bill. It features a black cap, white forehead, and pale grey upperparts. This species is found along freshwater rivers and lakes, often in tropical and subtropical regions.
Where to spot
Found in South America, primarily in the Amazon and Orinoco basins, extending into Argentina. Inhabits large freshwater rivers, lakes, and marshes with sandy banks.
How to spot
Identify by its bright yellow bill, black cap, white forehead, and pale grey back. Observe its graceful flight over freshwater, hovering briefly before plunge-diving for small fish. Scan sandbars for resting or nesting individuals.
When to spot
Resident year-round in many parts of its range, though some local movements occur seasonally, often tied to water levels. Breeding typically occurs during the dry season when sandbars are exposed. Best observed during daylight hours along riverbanks.
Where to spot
Found in South America, primarily in the Amazon and Orinoco basins, extending into Argentina. Inhabits large freshwater rivers, lakes, and marshes with sandy banks.
How to spot
Identify by its bright yellow bill, black cap, white forehead, and pale grey back. Observe its graceful flight over freshwater, hovering briefly before plunge-diving for small fish. Scan sandbars for resting or nesting individuals.
When to spot
Resident year-round in many parts of its range, though some local movements occur seasonally, often tied to water levels. Breeding typically occurs during the dry season when sandbars are exposed. Best observed during daylight hours along riverbanks.
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Yellow-billed Terns often nest on exposed sandbars in river systems, relying on fluctuating water levels for protection from predators.
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