| IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature): | Least Concern
|
|---|
| Approximate size(adult): | A medium-sized tern measuring 31–35 cm in length with a wingspan of 76–91 cm. Adults have pale grey upperparts, white underparts, a black cap on the head, and a red bill with a black tip. Legs are reddish.
|
|---|
| Resident/ Migrate from: | Breeds across temperate and subarctic regions of Europe, Asia, and North America. Most populations are migratory, leaving breeding grounds in late summer.
|
|---|
| Migrate to: | Winters in tropical and subtropical coasts of Africa, South Asia, Southeast Asia, and Central and South America. Often found along coastal waters, estuaries, and rivers.
|
|---|
| Breeding season: | Breeds from May to July. Nests in colonies on sandy or pebbly beaches, islands, or coastal marshes. Clutch size is usually 2–3 eggs.
|
|---|
| Breed in: | Prefers coastal sandbanks, islands, and occasionally inland lakes or riverbanks for nesting.
|
|---|
| Habitat: | Found in coastal and inland waters, including beaches, estuaries, lagoons, and lakes. Often seen fishing over shallow water.
|
|---|
| Diet: | Primarily fish, caught by plunging into water from flight. Also takes small crustaceans and aquatic insects.
|
|---|
