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Black Fronted Tern
This Black Fronted Tern was one of a number fishing just off the Otago peninsular. The tide was on its way out, and there was quite a current in this shallow area, where the terns were making many dives. I was a bit disappointed that the tern didn't come out with a fish, but I guess he was too. Details: Canon 350d, EF 300mm f/4 IS, 1.4x TC, 1/640, f/5.6, 200 ISO, hand held. -
Black Fronted Tern
This photograph was taken in the same place as the one above, the terns were wheeling and diving constantly, so I was able to catch one in flight. Details: Canon 350d, EF 300mm f/4 IS, 1.4x TC, 1/1000, f/8, 200 ISO, hand held.
Black-Fronted Tern (sterna albostriata)
Tarapiroe, Tara
Size: 29 cm, 80gm
Description: Small grey tern, bill and legs orange. In flight it displays its forked tail and white rump. Breeding adults have black cap down to bill.
Habitat: Feeds by hawking insects off riverbeds and picking prey from the surface of lakes, swamps and farmland. Feeds at sea off eastern coasts during winter as far north as the Bay of Plenty.
Status: Protected rare endemic. Approx. 5000 birds.
Breeding: October - February. Breeds in small colonies in gravel river beds on South Island. Lays 1-4 dark stone coloured eggs.
Distinguishing Features: Black breeding cap, orange bill and legs. Hawking dives during feeding.
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