Antarctic Tern
Sterna vittata
Least ConcernAves · Charadriiformes · Laridae
About
The Antarctic tern is a seabird in the family Laridae. It ranges throughout the southern oceans and is found on small islands around Antarctica as well as on the shores of the mainland. Its diet consists primarily of small fish and crustaceans. It is very similar in appearance to the closely related Arctic tern, but it is stockier, and it is in its breeding plumage in the southern summer, when the Arctic tern has shed old feathers to get its non-breeding plumage. The Antarctic tern does not migrate like the Arctic tern does, but it can still be found on a very large range. This tern species is actually more closely related to the South American tern.
Fun Fact
It usually fishes gregariously, forming flocks of up to 100 birds when they locate larger shoals.
Quick Facts
Habitat
To be updated
Diet
Eats small fishes as well as some crustaceans like Antarctic krill.
Lifespan
17 years
Threats
- Habitat Change
- Human Disturbance