ExploreBirds

Black Tern

Chlidonias niger

The Black Tern is a small, graceful bird that loves to fly over water. It has a black cap on its head and white underparts, making it look very stylish while hunting for fish.

Habitat: Wetlands

Appearance

The Black Tern is a medium-sized waterbird, distinct for its slate-grey back and striking jet-black head and underparts during breeding. Its pointed wings and slightly forked tail give it an elegant, agile appearance in flight.

KingdomAnimaliaPhylumChordataClassAvesOrderCharadriiformesFamilyLaridaeGenusChlidonias
Black Tern
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Black Tern

Category

Birds

Rarity

Common

Danger

1/5 · Very low

Snaps

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Interesting facts

Black Tern chicks can swim and hide from danger almost immediately after hatching!

Black Terns perform spectacular courtship dances, flying together in graceful, acrobatic loops!

They fly thousands of miles to warmer wintering areas, crossing continents!

Unlike many terns, they prefer dipping for food rather than plunge-diving headfirst!

Special abilities

Ability

Nimble Hunter

Black Terns can swiftly change direction mid-air to catch insects because of their pointed wings and streamlined body.

Ability

Surface Skimmer

Black Terns can pick small fish and insects from the water's surface without landing, using their delicate bills.

Ability

Floating Nest Builder

Black Terns can create nests on floating wetland vegetation because their lightweight bodies allow them to balance on unstable platforms.

Measurements & details

Length
22-26 cm
Wingspan
50-56 cm
Weight
0.06-0.075 kg
Lifespan
10-17 years
Top Speed
35 km/h
Clutch Size
2-4
Incubation
20-22 days
Migration Distance
8000 km

Diet & Feeding

These agile birds mostly catch insects in the air and small fish from the water's surface.

Primary Foods

  • dragonflies
  • mosquitoes
  • mayflies
  • small fish
  • aquatic insects

Foraging Method

  • Foraging

Ecological connections

Traits

Also known as

No aliases listed yet.

Collections

Safety

Danger

1/5 · Very low

If you see a bird's nest, be careful not to disturb it. It's important to let birds take care of their babies.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is Black Tern?

22-26 cm

What is Black Tern's wingspan?

50-56 cm

How much does Black Tern weigh?

0.06-0.075 kg

How long does Black Tern live?

10-17 years

How fast can Black Tern move?

35 km/h

What does Black Tern eat?

These agile birds mostly catch insects in the air and small fish from the water's surface.

Where is Black Tern usually found?

Wetlands

How does Black Tern hunt?

Foraging

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