Observe and photograph a species in its natural habitat

Learn where and when to observe a species in the wild, how to recognize it in the field, and what habitats it lives in. Get photography tips adapted to its behavior and capture stunning images without disturbing the animal. For full details, open the complete profile in the WildlifePhotographer app.

Roseate Tern

Scientific name: Sterna dougallii


Roseate Tern

IUCN Status: Near Threatened

Family: LARIDAE

Group: Birds

Shyness: Suspicious

Safe distance: 10 m

Breeding season / Courtship: 01.05–31.07

Gestation: 23–24 jours

Births: 26–30 jours


Habitat:
Sandy beaches, rocky islets, coastal areas

Description:
The Roseate Tern is an elegant seabird, recognizable by its pure white plumage, graceful wings, and black bill with a red tip. It frequents coasts and islands, often nesting in colonies on sandy beaches or rocky islets. Its flight is agile and fast, often punctuated by spectacular dives to catch fish at the water's surface. A migratory bird, it travels long distances between its breeding sites in Europe and its wintering grounds in Africa or South America. The Roseate Tern is a protected species, as it is vulnerable to human disturbances and predation by introduced species.

Recommended lens:
>=400mm

Photography tips:
To photograph the Roseate Tern, it is advisable to use a telephoto lens of at least 400mm to capture detailed images without disturbing the bird. The best opportunities arise during its spectacular dives or when it is resting on the beaches. Opt for the golden hours of morning or evening to benefit from soft and flattering light. Be discreet and maintain a safe distance of at least 10 meters to avoid disturbing these sensitive birds.

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