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    Sterna – Terns

    Every species in this genus looks sharp in a black cap during the winter

    These medium-sized terns with long and pointed wings are often compared with seagulls. Something familiar in all species is that they put on a white dress with a black cap; however, the color of the bill and feet varies.

    Roseate tern has a black bill, common tern has a red nose with a black tip, while arctic tern has an all-red bill. Unlike gulls, they are not efficient flyers; however, sometimes, they like to go for a swim. They hover over water and dive headfirst to catch a snack (often fish). You’d be fascinated to know that the black cap observed in these terns becomes white as the winter ends.