River tern

Sterna aurantia

The River tern (Sterna aurantia) is a small to medium-sized bird found in parts of Asia and Africa. It has a slender body, long pointed wings, and a deeply forked tail. The upperparts are pale grey, and the underparts are white. During the breeding season, the River tern has a black cap on the head and a black bill with a yellow tip. This species is known for its graceful flight and agile diving abilities, as it primarily feeds on fish. River terns are often found near rivers, lakes, and coastal areas, where they build their nests on sandbanks or gravel bars. They are known for their distinctive calls and aerial displays during courtship.

Habitat: Rivers, lakes, coastal areas