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Kerguelen Tern

Sterna virgata

Near Threatened
Wingspan
50.0 cm
Weight
127.5 g
Family
Laridae
Order
Charadriiformes

The Kerguelen Tern (Sterna virgata) is a bird species in the family Laridae (gulls & terns), within the order Charadriiformes (shorebirds & gulls). Recorded measurements include a wingspan of 50 cm and a weight of 127.5 g. The IUCN Red List classifies it as Near Threatened.

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About

Kerguelen Tern, 31–33 cm, is restricted to a handful of sub-Antarctic islands including Kerguelen and Crozet. Darker grey than Antarctic Tern, with reddish bill. Piscivore and invertivore; forages in kelp beds and coastal waters. Near Threatened; small, isolated population vulnerable to introduced predators.

Physical Description

Measurement Value Imperial
Wingspan 50.0 cm 19.7 in
Weight 127.5 g 4.50 oz

Habitat & Range

Conservation Status

Near Threatened
IUCN Red List

Behavior & Breeding

Nesting

Nest type: SC. Incubation: 24 days. Fledging: 31-39 days.

Clutch Size

1-2

Taxonomy

Kingdom Animalia
Phylum Chordata
Class Aves
Order Charadriiformes (Shorebirds & Gulls)
Family Laridae (Gulls & Terns)
Genus Sterna
Species Sterna virgata

Distribution

Kerguelen Tern has been recorded in 1 countries.

Present Not recorded

countries highlighted

External Databases

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Kerguelen Tern endangered?
The Kerguelen Tern has a conservation status of Near Threatened.
How does the Kerguelen Tern nest?
Nest type: SC. Incubation: 24 days. Fledging: 31-39 days.
How big is the Kerguelen Tern?
The Kerguelen Tern has a wingspan of 50.0 cm, weight of 127.5 g.
What order and family does the Kerguelen Tern belong to?
The Kerguelen Tern (Sterna virgata) belongs to the order Charadriiformes and the family Laridae.

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