Arctic Tern (Sterna paradisaea)

Arctic Tern (Sterna paradisaea) is a species of seabird belonging to the family Sternidae. The species is particularly known for its extremely long-distance migrations. It follows a migratory route that moves between the polar regions of the Northern and Southern Hemispheres throughout the year. Breeding grounds are primarily located in the polar and subarctic regions of the Northern Hemisphere, while during the nonbreeding season it exhibits a wide distribution extending as far south as the waters surrounding Antarctica. As a result, the Arctic Tern is regarded as one of the birds that undertake the longest migratory journeys on Earth. In Türkiye it has been observed as a casual visitor.

The Arctic Tern is classified within the order Charadriiformes, which includes gulls and terns. Its scientific name, Sterna paradisaea, was first described in the 18th century. Although it shares similarities with other tern species in terms of morphology and behavior, it is distinguished by its migration distance, breeding distribution, and certain physical characteristics.

The Arctic Tern is a medium-sized seabird. Its slender body, long pointed wings, and distinctly forked tail are key identifying features.

Adults have light gray upperparts and white underparts. The crown of the head is black. The bill is typically bright red, slender, and pointed. The legs are short and reddish. The wings are long and narrow, providing an aerodynamic advantage for sustained flight and migration.

Juveniles resemble adults but have duller plumage and may display dark markings on the wings. The flight of the species is characterized by light and agile movements.

The Arctic Tern has a wide geographic distribution. Breeding sites are primarily located in the northern parts of North America, Europe, and Asia. In these regions, coastal islands, tundra areas, and open shorelines serve as breeding habitats.

Outside the breeding season, the species spends most of its time over open oceans. During migration it travels vast distances across the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, reaching the cold seas around Antarctica for the winter. This migratory pattern allows the bird to experience nearly continuous daylight throughout the year.

The Arctic Tern has the longest migration of any animal species. Individuals leave their breeding grounds in the Northern Hemisphere during autumn and fly south to reach the waters around Antarctica. In spring, they return north to their breeding sites.

This migratory route is shaped by ocean currents and persistent wind systems. The bird’s long and narrow wing structure is adapted for prolonged flight and enhances energy efficiency.

The Arctic Tern primarily feeds on small fish and marine invertebrates. Feeding typically occurs near the ocean surface.

While foraging, it usually flies above the water surface and dives to catch prey once detected. It may also pick food directly from the water surface. Its diet includes small fish, crustaceans, and other small marine organisms.

The species typically breeds in colonies. Nesting sites are usually open areas on coastal islands or tundra regions. Nests are simple depressions dug into the ground and may be lined with small stones or plant material.

Females typically lay one or two eggs. Both males and females participate in incubation. After hatching, chicks are able to move shortly and are fed by their parents.