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Whiskered Tern
The Whiskered Tern (*Chlidonias hybrida*) is a small, elegant tern found across a wide range of the Old World and Australia. It is a member of the marsh tern group, which are distinguished by their preference for freshwater habitats, unlike many other tern species that are primarily coastal. This adaptable bird plays a vital role in wetland ecosystems, primarily as a predator of insects and small aquatic animals. Known for its graceful flight and distinctive breeding plumage, the Whiskered Tern does not hold any widely known specific cultural significance, but it contributes to the biodiversity and ecological health of the regions it inhabits.
23-29 cm
Length
63-68 cm
Wingspan
Least Concern
Conservation Status
Distribution
The Whiskered Tern has a vast distribution, breeding across southern Europe, central and southern Asia, parts of Africa, and Australia. It is a highly migratory species, with northern populations wintering in tropical Africa, South Asia, and Australasia. The altitudinal range extends from sea level to inland wetlands up to 1,500 meters in some regions.
Lifespan
The average lifespan in the wild is not well documented, but is likely to be between 5-10 years, with some individuals potentially living longer.
Whiskered Tern's Habitat
Habitat Types
Freshwater marshes, Shallow lakes, Rice paddies, Floodplains, Reservoirs, Coastal lagoons (less frequently)
Climate Zones
Temperate, Tropical, Subtropical, Mediterranean
Adaptations
Whiskered Terns are adapted to fluctuating water levels in their wetland habitats. Their relatively long legs allow them to wade in shallow water, and their agile flight enables them to hunt effectively over dense vegetation.
Variations
Several subspecies are recognized, including *C. h. hybrida* (Europe, Asia, Africa), *C. h. javanicus* (Southeast Asia, Australia), and *C. h. delalandii* (eastern and southern Africa). These subspecies show slight variations in size and plumage.
Appearance
Breeding Plumage
Breeding adults have a black cap, dark grey underparts, white cheeks (the 'whiskers'), and a red bill and legs. Non-breeding adults have paler grey underparts, a white forehead, and a black bill. Juveniles have a mottled brown and grey appearance.
Seasonal Feather Changes
The most significant seasonal variation is the change between breeding and non-breeding plumage, as described above. The transition occurs through molting.
Sex Based Plumage Differences
There is minimal sexual dimorphism in plumage; males and females are visually very similar.
Notable Features
White 'whisker' marks on the cheeks (prominent in breeding plumage), Dark grey underparts in breeding plumage, Relatively short, slightly forked tail, Long, pointed wings
Diet and Feeding
Primary Foods
Insects, Small fish, Crustaceans, Amphibians (tadpoles), Small invertebrates
Foraging Behavior
Whiskered Terns primarily hunt by hovering and plunge-diving into shallow water or picking prey from the water's surface. They also hawk insects in flight, often flying low over vegetation. Feeding often occurs in loose flocks, particularly during migration or at abundant food sources.
Specializations
Their relatively long, slender bill is well-suited for catching a variety of small prey items. Their agile flight allows them to efficiently hunt both aquatic and aerial prey.
Seasonal Diet Variations
The diet can vary depending on prey availability. During the breeding season, insects may form a larger proportion of the diet, while fish and crustaceans may be more important during migration or in wintering areas.
Behavior
Social Structure
Whiskered Terns are gregarious, often forming loose breeding colonies and foraging flocks. Outside of the breeding season, they can gather in large flocks, sometimes numbering hundreds or even thousands of birds, particularly during migration.
Communication
A variety of calls, including a harsh 'krek' or 'kee-arr', Chattering calls during interactions within flocks, Visual displays, such as wing raising and bowing, during courtship
Migration
Whiskered Terns are highly migratory, with complex migration patterns. European populations migrate to sub-Saharan Africa, while Asian populations move to South Asia and Australasia. Migration often follows coastlines or major river systems.
Territorial or Group Behaviors
During the breeding season, they defend a small territory around the nest. However, they are not highly aggressive and often nest in close proximity to other pairs. Outside the breeding season, they are generally non-territorial.
Conservation
Threats
Habitat loss and degradation (wetland drainage, pollution), Changes in water management practices, Pesticide use (affecting insect prey), Human disturbance at breeding sites, Climate change (potential impacts on breeding success and migration)
Protection Programs
The Whiskered Tern is listed under the Agreement on the Conservation of African-Eurasian Migratory Waterbirds (AEWA), Some breeding sites are protected within national parks and reserves
Local National Laws
Protected under various national and international wildlife legislation in many countries within its range.
Population Trend
Stable
Population Estimates
The global population is estimated to be between 1,300,000 and 4,300,000 individuals.
Interesting Facts
They are known for their erratic, buoyant flight.
This flight style is particularly noticeable when they are hunting, allowing them to hover and change direction quickly.
They are one of the few tern species that regularly plunge-dives into freshwater.
Most terns are associated with coastal habitats, but marsh terns like the Whiskered Tern are adapted to inland wetlands.
Their 'whiskers' are actually white feathers on their cheeks.
These feathers are most prominent during the breeding season and give the bird its common name.
They can sometimes be found in mixed-species flocks with other terns and gulls.
This behavior is common during migration or at feeding sites with abundant resources.
Faqs about Whiskered Tern
What is the difference between a Whiskered Tern and a Common Tern?
Whiskered Terns are smaller and have a different breeding plumage (dark grey underparts and white cheeks). Common Terns have light grey underparts and a black cap that extends to the nape. Whiskered Terns are also primarily found in freshwater habitats, while Common Terns are more coastal.
Are Whiskered Terns endangered?
No, they are currently classified as Least Concern by the IUCN. However, their populations are vulnerable to habitat loss and other threats.
Where can I see Whiskered Terns?
Whiskered Terns can be seen in suitable wetland habitats across their range, which includes parts of Europe, Asia, Africa, and Australia. Look for them near shallow lakes, marshes, and rice paddies, especially during the breeding season or migration.
Do Whiskered Tern eat fish?
Yes, although insects are a major part of the diet. Small fish, tadpole, and crustaceans are also preyed.
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