The Arctic tern is a medium-sized tern which nests in colonies on sand and shingle beaches along the coast. Arctic terns are noisy in their colonies and, like most terns, will attack intruders threatening their nests, often 'dive-bombing' them with their sharp bills at the ready. Famed for their long migrations, they return to this country in April to breed and leave again in September.
How to identify:
Common terns and Arctic terns can be very difficult to tell apart. The Arctic tern is greyer below, has very long tail streamers and a shorter bill which is blood-red with no black tip. Arctic terns are silvery-grey above and white below, with a black cap and tiny red legs.
Where to find it:
A summer visitor, nesting on islands around the north of England and Scotland. Can be seen around most of our coasts and on large lakes and reservoirs during migration.
How people can help:
Arctic tern populations are vulnerable to fish shortages, habitat loss and disturbance. The Wildlife Trusts are working with fishermen, researchers, politicians and local people towards a vision of 'Living Seas' where marine wildlife thrives. This work has recently had a massive boost with the passing of the Marine Bill, promising sustainable development of the UK's marine environment. Do your bit for our Living Seas by supporting your local Wildlife Trust.
Statistics:
Length: 33-35cm Wingspan: 80cm Weight: 110g Average Lifespan: 13 years
Conservation status:
Classified in the UK as an Amber List species under the Birds of Conservation Concern review.
Did you know?:
Arctic terns have one of the longest migrations of any bird: summer visitors to the UK, they travel all the way to the Antarctic to spend the winter. Some birds will even travel from breeding grounds in the Arctic all the way to the Antarctic.
