is a graceful bird that is known for its sleek body, pointed wings, and long tail. With its stunning grey and white plumage, it is a sight to behold in the wild.
**Basic Description**
Forster’s Tern is a medium-sized seabird that measures about 13-15 inches in length and has a wingspan of up to 30 inches. It belongs to the tern family and is closely related to other species like the common tern, Arctic tern, and royal tern. The male and female have similar appearances and are difficult to tell apart.
**Where To Find This Bird**
Forster’s Tern can be found throughout North America during breeding season between April-August. They breed along both coasts of North America as well as inland lakes such as Great Salt Lake in Utah or Salton Sea in California. During winter months they migrate south towards Central/South America with congregations often seen along Gulf Coast states.
**Habitat**
This bird prefers shallow waters near coastlines but will also venture inland near freshwater bodies such as rivers or lakes especially during migration season. They nest on sandy beaches or marshy areas where there are few predators such as foxes or raccoons nearby.
**Food**
As an aquatic predator Forster’s Tern feeds primarily on small fish (up to 4 inches) which they catch by diving headfirst into water from heights varying from only several feet above surface level (known as plunge-diving) all way up over thirty feet! Once caught these fish are carried back up into air where birds usually eat them mid-flight before returning back down onto water again.
**Cool Facts**
One cool fact about this bird is their ability to adjust their fishing tactics depending upon prey item size/shape; smaller/preferred prey may be eaten immediately while larger/faster gamefish chased until exhausted prior being swallowed whole without chewing bones/scales removed after digestion process complete! Another interesting trait is their territorial nature during breeding season where males will defend nesting sites against other male terns to ensure proper mating opportunities with females.
Overall, Forster’s Tern is a fascinating bird that should be appreciated for its beauty and unique behaviors. Whether you’re an avid birdwatcher or just enjoy spending time in nature, keep your eyes peeled for this remarkable creature on your next outdoor adventure!
