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.
Royal Tern
Scientific name: Thalasseus maximus
IUCN Status: Least concern
Family: LARIDAE
Group: Birds
Shyness: Suspicious
Safe distance: 10 m
Breeding season / Courtship: N/A
Gestation: N/A
Births: N/A
Habitat:
Coasts, estuaries, beaches
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:
>=400mm
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.
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