Whiskered Tern

Chlidonias hybrida

The Whiskered Tern (Chlidonias hybrida) is a graceful and agile waterbird known for its slender body, long wings, and distinctive black cap with a white forehead. During the breeding season, its plumage is characterized by a silvery-grey mantle, black belly patch, and a black bill. This species is often observed foraging over shallow water bodies, where it skillfully hovers and dives to catch small fish and insects. Whiskered Terns are highly social, nesting in colonies on floating vegetation or marshy areas. They are migratory birds, wintering in Africa and breeding in Europe and Asia.

Habitat: Freshwater wetlands and shallow lakes