Swift Tern (Sterna bergii)


20 inches long

Large tern with a large yellow bill.

Found in the Indian Ocean and western Pacific coastal areas. In southern Africa occurs in the Atlantic Ocean as far north as Namibia.

Found in small parties along the coast and in estuaries, forming flocks of up to 50 birds. Will associate with gulls and other terns if only a few Swift Terns.

Eats fish such as mullet, and sardines.

Nesting is in colonies usually on an open flat area. A shallow scrape is made, sometimes lined with a little grass.