Arctic Tern
Sterna paradisaea
Length 35cm

Superficially very similar to common tern and told at close range by uniformly blood-red bill and very short, red legs. Underparts pale greyish, becoming paler on throat and cheeks. In flight, wings have a translucent look. Summer visitor to coasts of Britain and Ireland from wintering grounds in Antarctic seas. Present from April to September and most numerous in N and W. Breeds in large colonies, mainly on undisturbed shingle and sandy beaches. Easy to see on Farne Islands, Northumberland, where nesting birds can be viewed at very close range. Plunge-dives for fish. Utters harsh krt-krt-krt call at intruders near nest.