A migratory seabird characterized by its sleek, agile body and distinctive forked tail, found across temperate and subarctic regions of Europe, Asia, and North America.
Image Gallery
ADSENSE SLOT
Ecology & Habitat
Habitat
Coastal marine environments, inland lakes, rivers, and estuaries with proximity to open water for fishing and breeding colonies on sandy or rocky shorelines
Ecological Role
Key marine predator controlling fish populations, indicator species for marine ecosystem health, and crucial component of coastal food webs
Morphology
SKIN COATLight gray dorsal plumage, white ventral surface, black cap during breeding season
LIMBS WINGSLong, narrow wings with 76-82 cm wingspan, pointed wingtips enabling exceptional aerial maneuverability, red-orange legs
HEAD SENSORYPointed black-tipped bill, large dark eyes with excellent visual acuity for hunting fish, white forehead and crown
BODY STRUCTURESlender, streamlined body averaging 33-36 cm in length, weighing 100-150 g, with graceful flight profile
