Least tern

The least tern is a petite and captivating bird found throughout North and South America. It is closely related to the little tern from the Old World, along with species like the yellow-billed tern and the Peruvian tern. These birds migrate to warmer climates, spending winters in Central America, the Caribbean, and parts of South America, with a few occasionally reaching Europe.

There are three recognized subspecies of the least tern, each occupying distinct breeding and wintering areas. Unfortunately, some of these subspecies are endangered due to threats such as habitat loss, predation, and human disturbance, prompting conservation efforts to protect them.

The breeding and nesting rituals of least terns are quite intricate. Their courtship involves elaborate displays, and they typically nest on sandy or gravelly areas near water. The eggs are incubated for about three weeks, with a clutch size of two to three eggs. Both parents actively participate in caring for the young, which are capable of flying at around four weeks old.

Least terns primarily hunt in shallow estuaries and lagoons, feeding on small fish, crustaceans, and insects. The adults are quite adaptable, often roosting on open ground without much cover. However, the chicks require protection from predators and harsh weather, so conservationists sometimes create windbreaks and provide shade in nesting colonies.

Despite facing numerous threats, dedicated conservation efforts have helped some least tern populations recover. Understanding their behavior, nesting habits, feeding patterns, and conservation status is crucial to ensuring the continued survival of this unique seabird.