Habitat:
Coasts, estuaries, beaches

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

Identification and description:
The Royal Tern, or Thalasseus maximus, is an elegant seabird known for its large size and striking white plumage, contrasted by a black cap on its head. Its bright orange bill and long, slender wings give it a majestic appearance in flight. It primarily inhabits Atlantic coasts and estuaries, feeding on fish caught with precision diving. Sociable by nature, it nests in dense colonies on sandy islets or isolated beaches. Although its conservation status is currently "least concern," it remains sensitive to human disturbances and habitat degradation.

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

Photography tips:
To photograph the Royal Tern, focus on beaches and estuaries where it is active. Use a 400mm or longer telephoto lens to capture detailed images without disturbing the bird. Observe its behavior to anticipate its spectacular dives. Morning or late afternoon light offers ideal conditions for shots with beautiful natural lighting. Be patient and discreet, maintaining a safe distance of at least 10 m to avoid disturbing the colonies.