Habitat:
Tropical islands, rocky coasts, sandy beaches

Activity period :
Primarily active during the day, with peak activity in the morning and late afternoon.

Identification and description:
The Sooty Tern, or Onychoprion fuscatus, is a medium-sized tern known for its striking black and white plumage. Its upper parts are predominantly black, while the underparts are white, creating a sharp contrast. The black, slender bill is well-suited for its diet of fish and squid. Sooty Terns are gregarious seabirds, often seen in large flocks, especially during the breeding season. They nest mainly on tropical and subtropical islands, forming extensive colonies. Their flight is swift and agile, characterized by rapid wing beats and graceful glides. Although they spend most of their lives at sea, they return to land to breed, typically laying a single egg per season.

Recommended lens:
400mm – adjust based on distance, desired framing (portrait or habitat), and approach conditions.

Photography tips:
To photograph the Sooty Tern, it is advisable to use a 400mm lens or longer to capture detailed images without disturbing the bird. Look for colonies on tropical islands where they nest in large numbers. Be patient and wait for the birds to approach naturally. The best photos are often taken early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the light is soft. Make sure to respect the 10m safety distance to avoid disturbing their natural behavior.