Saunders's Tern

Sternula saundersi

Saunders's Tern (Sternula saundersi) is a small seabird that breeds in the United Arab Emirates and winters in the Arabian Gulf. It has a white forehead, black cap, and a slender black bill. The upperparts are pale grey and the underparts are white. During the breeding season, it can be found nesting on sandy or muddy shores and foraging in shallow coastal waters. Outside the breeding season, it migrates to the Arabian Gulf where it can be seen in shallow waters and mudflats. This species is known for its graceful flight and agile diving abilities to catch small fish and invertebrates.

Habitat: Coastal shores and shallow waters