Black–fronted tern

Description:

Measuring 29 cm (12 in) in length, the adult tern has predominantly grey plumage with a black cap typical of many terns. The underparts and rump are white, and there is a thin white streak running along the cheeks underneath the cap. The bill is red and legs orange. The black cap recedes from the bill in non-breeding plumage and becomes flecked with white.[3]

Habitat:

The black–fronted terns breed on the shingle riverbeds of the South Island from Marlborough to Southland and on the upper Motueka and Buller rivers in southern Nelson. In late summer and autumn they disperse to coastal areas, occasionally reaching Northland and the waters off Stewart Island.

Notes:

Were on the shore on a protected beach.