Sterna hirundinacea
The South American Tern (*Sterna hirundinacea*) is a quintessential coastal and riverine seabird of its namesake continent, easily recognized by its sleek, streamlined profile. Measuring between 38-43 cm in length with a wingspan of 80-85 cm, adults in breeding plumage sport a striking black cap extending to the nape, contrasting sharply with a white body and pale grey upperparts. Its bill is typically bright red or orange with a distinct black tip, complemented by vibrant red legs and feet. ...
Found primarily along coastal shorelines, estuaries, and large freshwater rivers and lagoons, the South American Tern prefers low-lying areas. It is generally found from sea level up to several hundred meters along major river systems.
Their diet consists predominantly of small schooling fish, supplemented occasionally by marine invertebrates such as shrimp and squid. They forage primarily by plunge-diving into shallow waters.
South American Terns are diurnal birds, often observed foraging during the day and gathering in communal roosts on secluded sandbars, beaches, or rocky outcrops at night. Their foraging strategy is characterized by graceful aerial hunting, hovering over water before executing a precise, shallow p...
The South American Tern boasts an extensive distribution across the continent, with distinct breeding and wintering grounds. Its primary breeding range encompasses coastal and major inland river systems from central Peru and southern Brazil south through Uruguay, Argentina, and Chile, extending t...
Least Concern
- The scientific name *hirundinacea* means 'swallow-like', referring to its graceful flight and deeply forked tail, reminiscent of a swallow. - It is one of the most widespread tern species across South America, occupying diverse aquatic habitats from sea to vast inland rivers. - Distinguishing i...