Arctic Tern

About

The Arctic Tern is a medium-sized bird species known for its remarkable migration patterns. It breeds in the Arctic during the summer months and migrates to Antarctica for the winter, traveling distances of up to 71,000 km annually. This journey allows them to experience two summers in a year, maximizing their feeding time in daylight. The species is recognized for its grey and white plumage, with a red/orange beak and feet, and a deeply forked tail. Arctic Terns are long-lived, often reaching fifteen to thirty years of age. They primarily feed on fish and small marine invertebrates, using plunge-diving techniques. Their lightweight bodies and high aspect ratio wings enable efficient gliding, helping them cover vast distances with minimal effort. Despite their impressive migrations, Arctic Terns face challenges due to environmental shifts, making them a key indicator species for marine health.