Inca Tern

Larosterna inca (Lesson, RP & Garnot, 1827)

Inca Tern, Larosterna inca, breeds on the Pacific coast of South America from northern Peru to central Chile. It is a member of the gull, tern and skimmer family and is the only species in its genus. The bird is closely tied to the Humboldt Current region and nests on sea cliffs, guano islands, rocky slopes, and also on human-made structures such as pier ledges and abandoned barges. It is notable for its striking plumage, with a dark body, a white facial stripe that extends into long neck plumes, and a red bill and legs.

Order

Charadriiformes

Family

Laridae — Gulls, Terns, Skimmers

Breeding range

South America: coastal n Peru to c Chile