Inca Tern

More Information

Physical Description

Inca terns have a dark gray body and a red beak and legs. Moustache-like tufts of white feathers on each side of their beak signal maturity in males and females. They feed primarily on small fish, such as anchovies, and catch their prey by diving into the water with their pointed beak. Inca terns nest on rocky cliffs, laying their eggs in natural holes and burrows.

Interesting Fact 1

Inca terns are native to the same region of South America as the ancient Inca Empire—hence their name.

Interesting Fact 2

Their population decline is likely due to overfishing and ocean pollution.

Interesting Fact 3

The length of their moustache can be a signal of reproductive health and performance.