| IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature): | Least Concern
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| Approximate size(adult): | A large tern, about 48–53 cm in length with a wingspan of 125–140 cm and weighing around 500–600 g. It has grey upperparts, white underparts, a black shaggy crest, and a strong yellow bill. The legs and feet are black.
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| Resident/ Migrate from: | Partially migratory species, widely distributed across tropical and subtropical coasts of the Indian Ocean, Pacific Ocean, and parts of the Red Sea. Many populations are resident, while some move seasonally.
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| Migrate to: | Northern breeding populations migrate southward to warmer coastal waters in India, Sri Lanka, Indonesia, and Australia during the non-breeding season.
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| Breeding season: | April to July in most tropical regions. Breeds colonially on sandy or rocky islands, often alongside other seabirds. Lays one egg in a shallow scrape on the ground. Both parents share incubation and chick feeding.
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| Breed in: | Prefers offshore islands, coral reefs, and sandy spits, especially where human disturbance is minimal. Chooses open, flat surfaces for nesting.
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| Habitat: | Found in coastal areas, estuaries, lagoons, and nearshore marine waters. Frequently seen flying over the sea or resting in large flocks on sandbars and beaches.
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| Diet: | Feeds mainly on small fish, especially anchovies and sardines, caught by plunge-diving into the sea. Also eats crustaceans and cephalopods occasionally. Forages both alone and in flocks, often following fishing boats.
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