Arctic tern
Scientific name: Sterna paradisaea
The Arctic tern is famed for its aggression towards any that would disturb its nest - it will dive-bomb intruders with its sharp beak. Large, noisy colonies can be found on the Farne Islands and Northern Isles, in particular.
Species information
Statistics
Length: 33-35cmWingspan: 75-85cm
Weight: 95-120g
Average lifespan: 13 years
Conservation status
Classified in the UK as Red following a 2024 update to the Birds of Conservation Concern 5: the Red List for Birds (2021).