WHISKERED TERN

Description:

The whiskered tern (Chlidonias hybrida or Chlidonias hybridus) is a seabird of the tern family, Sternidae. The specific hybridus is Latin for hybrid; Pallas thought it might be a hybrid of white-winged black tern and common tern, This bird has a number of geographical races, differing mainly in size and minor plumage details. Breeds in warmer parts of Europe and Asia. The smaller-billed and darker The tropical forms are resident, but European and Asian birds winter south to Africa and the Indian Subcontinent. This species breeds in colonies on inland marshes, sometimes amongst black-headed gulls, which provide some protection. The scientific name arises from the fact that this, the largest marsh tern, show similarities in appearance to both the white Sterna terns and to black tern.

Habitat:

This species breeds in colonies on inland marshes, sometimes amongst black-headed gulls, which provide some protection. The scientific name arises from the fact that this, the largest marsh tern, show similarities in appearance to both the white Sterna terns and to black tern. The whiskered tern eats small fish, amphibians, insects and crustaceans.