Your wildlife photography guide.
Explore the common tern in detail, study its behavior, prepare your shots.
Where to observe and photograph the common tern in the wild
Learn where and when to spot the common tern in the wild, how to identify the species based on distinctive features, and what natural environments it inhabits. The WildlifePhotographer app offers tailored photography tips that reflect the common tern’s behavior, helping you capture better wildlife images. Explore the full species profile for key information including description, habitat, active periods, and approach techniques.
Common tern
Scientific name: Sterna hirundo
IUCN Status: Least Concern
Family: STERNAE
Group: Birds
Sensitivity to human approach: Suspicious
Minimum approach distance: 10 m
Courtship display: March to May
Incubation: 21–23 jours
Hatchings: March to May
Habitat:
Coasts, estuaries, rivers, lakes
Activity period :
Primarily active during the day, with peak activity in the morning and late afternoon.
Identification and description:
The common tern is an elegant seabird easily recognized by its white plumage, light gray back, and bright red beak. It is primarily found along the coasts of Europe, Asia, and North Africa, often near estuaries and rivers. This bird is an excellent fisher, diving with precision into the water to catch fish. The common tern is also known for its swift and graceful flights.
Recommended lens:
400 mm – adjust based on distance, desired framing (portrait or habitat), and approach conditions.
Photography tips:
Photograph the common tern using a telephoto lens to capture its dives and graceful flights. It is best to photograph early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the light is soft and the bird is more active. Be ready to capture the moment when the bird dives into the water or takes flight for a dynamic shot.
The WildlifePhotographer App is coming soon!
Be the first to explore the best nature spots, track rutting seasons, log your observations, and observe more wildlife.
Already 1 406 wildlife lovers subscribed worldwide