White winged tern

Introduction: White-winged terns (Chlidonias leucopterus) inhabit ephemeral water bodies as well as wetlands, sewage ponds, salt works and dams. They are often in the company of other terns and waders and roost communally on bare, muddy or sandy islets.

Distribution: Kunene River mouth, Etosha National Park, Caprivi, Walvis Bay and Swakopmund, Sandwich Harbour, with scattered populations around southern, central and northern inland areas.

Diet: Forages in flocks and plunge-dives for fish. Attracted to fishing vessels.

Description: Leucopterus is Greek for 'white-winged'. Head, nape, mantle and back glossy back. Rump and tail white.

Breeding: Breeds Palearctic mainly 40-55°N.

Size: 20g.

Weight: 60g.