Key information
Similar in size to a common tern but very white-looking, with long tail-streamers, a black cap and a black beak with a reddish base. In summer adults have a pinkish tinge to their underparts which gives them their name. It is one of our rarest seabirds and whose severe, long-lasting and well documented decline make it a Red List species. It is also listed under Schedule 1 of The Wildlife and Countryside Act.
What they eat:
Fish.
Measurements:
- Length:
- 33-38cm
- Wingspan:
- 72-80cm
- Weight:
- 95-130g
Population:
- UK breeding:
- 111 pairs
Identifying features:
This bird species has different identifying features depending on sex/age/season.
Roseate tern (adult/summer plumage)
Roseate tern (juvenile)
