Australian Tern

Identification

The Australian tern is a fairly large and powerful tern, similar in size and general appearance to a Sandwich tern. At 33–42 cm in length with a wingspan of 76–91 cm, it is a substantial member of its family. The most distinctive features are its short, thick gull-like bill, broad wings, long legs, and robust body. In summer plumage, adults display pale grey upperparts with white underparts, a striking black cap, strong black bill, and black legs. The characteristic call is a sharp ker-wik. In winter, the bird loses its cap and develops a dark patch through the eye, resembling a Forster's tern or Mediterranean gull. Juveniles show a fainter mask but otherwise resemble winter adults. The Australian tern differs from its closely related cousin, the gull-billed tern, in being slightly larger, paler grey above, and sporting an obviously larger, heavier bill.

Range & Habitat

The Australian tern breeds throughout Australia, with some individuals reaching New Guinea during the non-breeding season. This species breeds in colonies on lakes, marshes, and coastal areas, nesting in simple ground scrapes where females lay two to five eggs.

Behaviour & Diet

The Australian tern is somewhat atypical among terns, appearing similar to Sterna terns but exhibiting feeding habits more reminiscent of marsh terns. Unlike most white terns, it does not normally plunge dive for fish. Instead, it maintains a notably broader diet and employs more varied hunting techniques. The species largely feeds on insects taken in flight and frequently hunts over wet fields and brushy areas in search of amphibians and small mammals. As an opportunistic feeder, the Australian tern has even been observed picking up and consuming dead dragonflies from roads, demonstrating its adaptable foraging strategy.

Best Time & Places to See It

The Australian tern can be found throughout Australian lakes, marshes, and coastal regions where breeding colonies establish themselves. The breeding season represents the best time to observe the species in its most striking plumage, when the black cap and strong bill markings are most prominent. Look for these birds hunting over shallow waters and wet fields, where their characteristic aerial feeding behaviour makes them relatively conspicuous.

Photography Tips

Photographers should focus on capturing the distinctive features that set this species apart: the thick, gull-like bill, the contrast between pale grey upperparts and white underparts, and the striking black cap during breeding season. The bird's aerial hunting behaviour over wetlands and fields provides dynamic photo opportunities. Position yourself near breeding colonies or favoured feeding grounds at lakes and marshes for the best chances. During winter months, include the characteristic dark eye-patch in your composition to document seasonal plumage changes. The robust body shape and broad wings are best appreciated from side angles during flight.