Little Tern
Sternula albifrons
NativeStatus
UncommonRarity
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Species Description
The Little Tern is the smallest tern found in Australia, known for its agile flight and energetic fishing displays in shallow coastal waters, estuaries, and lagoons. It is a small but determined hunter seen across sandy beaches and sheltered inlets across much of the continent.
Fun Facts
Chicks can recognize their parents’ voices from the first day, helping them survive in busy colonies.
1. Bright yellow bill with a black tip
2. Distinctive white forehead patch in breeding season
3. Tiny size with hurried, deep wingbeats
Little Terns are widespread along Australia’s coasts, from Shark Bay in Western Australia, across northern and eastern Australia, to Tasmania and the Gulf of St Vincent in South Australia. They prefer sandy beaches, estuaries, sheltered inlets, and sometimes venture a few kilometres inland along rivers and harbours. Breeding colonies are typically found on open sand or shingle beaches, sand spits, and occasionally on artificial sites like saltpans.
Physical Attributes
Height
24 cm
Size Relative to Other Birds53%
Top Locations
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