About the South American Tern

The South American tern (Sterna hirundinacea) is a slender and graceful seabird found along the coasts of South America, particularly in Argentina, Chile, and the Falkland Islands. This species is known for its elegant flight and distinctive appearance.

These terns are agile fliers often seen hovering over the water before plunging to catch fish. They are highly social birds, frequently found in large colonies, especially during the breeding season.

South American terns have a sleek, streamlined body with long, pointed wings and a deeply forked tail. Their greyish-white body, with a black cap on their head and bright red-orange legs and bills, stand out against their pale plumage.

The six species of prions include:

Fairy Prion (Pachyptila turtur)

Fulmar Prion (Pachyptila crassirostris)

Antarctic Prion (Pachyptila desolata)

Slender-billed Prion (Pachyptila belcheri)

Broad-billed Prion (Pachyptila vittata)

Salvin's Prion (Pachyptila salvini)

The South American tern (Sterna hirundinacea) is usually the most common tern in its range, which includes the coastal regions of southern South America, the Falkland Islands, Peru, and Brazil. 

The Falkland's terns are threatened by commercial fishing, and the population is estimated to be about 10,000 breeding pairs. The world population is unknown. But despite declines, The South American Tern is currently evaluated as Least Concern.

Climate change poses threats to their food sources and breeding habitats.

Where to see South American Terns

This tern is found around the coasts of the southern half of South America. Its breeding range extends on the Atlantic coast from east central Brazil southwards through Argentina and the Falkland Islands to Tierra del Fuego.

Interesting facts about South American Terns

The South American tern has a distinctive, high-pitched call, often heard when they are flying or when they gather in colonies during the breeding season.

They are social birds and can be seen in large flocks, especially during migration and breeding seasons.

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