White-winged Black Tern in its natural habitat
Uncommon rarity

White-winged Black Tern

Chlidonias leucopterus

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StatusNative
RarityUncommon
Height25 cm
Weight65 g
Image of White-winged Black Tern
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Did You Know?

3 Facts
1

"These terns can change from their striking black breeding plumage to winter white in just a few weeks!"

Field Guide

White-winged Black Tern

5 sections

The White-winged Black Tern is a rare visitor to New Zealand, bringing a touch of the exotic to our wetlands and coastal areas. About the size of a blackbird, this elegant bird transforms dramatically between its breeding and non-breeding plumages, making it a thrilling find for birdwatchers lucky enough to spot one.

Distribution Map

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Diet

Insects
Insects
Fish_AquaticPrey
Fish AquaticPrey
Reptiles_and_amphibians
Reptiles and amphibians

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