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.

White-winged Tern

Scientific name: Chlidonias leucopterus


White-winged Tern

IUCN Status: Least Concern

Family: LARIDAE

Group: Birds

Shyness: Suspicious

Safe distance: 10 m

Breeding season / Courtship: 01.05–15.06

Gestation / Incubation: 21–23 jours

Births: 01.06–30.06


Habitat:
Wetlands, marshes, lakes

Description:
The White-winged Tern, Chlidonias leucopterus, is an elegant bird from the Laridae family, recognizable by its white wings contrasting with its black body during the breeding season. It primarily inhabits wetlands, marshes, and lakes, where it feeds on insects and small fish. This migratory bird is found in Eastern Europe and Asia during the breeding season, before migrating to Africa and South Asia for the winter. Its population is generally stable, although threats such as habitat destruction and pollution can affect it locally. The White-winged Tern is a fascinating bird to observe, especially during its aerial acrobatics over water bodies.

Recommended lens:
>=400mm

Photography tips:
To photograph the White-winged Tern, opt for the golden hours of the morning or afternoon to benefit from soft and flattering light. Use a 400mm or longer lens to capture precise details without disturbing the bird. Be patient and wait for the bird to approach your position, remaining still to avoid scaring it. Focus on capturing in-flight shots to highlight its aerial acrobatics.

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