About Arctic Tern
The arctic tern is one of Iceland’s most iconic seabirds and is commonly found
along the coast during the summer months. It is famous for having one of the
longest migrations of any bird, traveling annually between the Arctic and
Antarctic. The species is highly defensive and often attacks intruders near
its nest.
Its diet mainly consists of small fish caught by plunge-diving into the sea.
Arctic terns nest in dense colonies on open coastal areas. The arctic tern is
a strong symbol of the Icelandic summer.
Habitat
Coastlines, islands, and shores
Diet
Small fish, crustaceans and other small marine prey.
Nesting habitat
Coasts, islands, gravel areas and open ground; nests on the ground.
Identification
A slender tern with long pointed wings, black cap, red bill and a very long forked tail.
Distribution
Breeds widely around Iceland along coasts, on islands and also inland.
Interesting facts
The Arctic tern has the longest migration of any bird in the world.