The Artic Tern is a medium size seabird with long pointed wings and general shape it has been known locally as the ‘sea swallow’ from the moment they take-off, they are birds of the wing. Weighing between 95-125 g with an average wingspan of 75-85cm.
The Isle of May on the firth of forth is a popular breeding ground for the artic tern.
The breeding colonies can be seen on the Farne Islands, Isle of May and various coastal locations.
The Artic terns start to breed in the third or fourth year, they stay with the same partner for life (monogamy is rare in most animal species but common among birds). When courtship is displayed in the air the female will chase the male to high altitude and they slowly descend with each other, then a male will show his fishing flights where he will offer the fish for the female. Courtship on the ground involves strutting with a raised tail and lowered wings. After this, both birds will usually fly and circle each other.
Artic tern can be seen passing over the mainland on migration to the breeding grounds. It is an amazing experience to take part in a boat trip to see the breeding colonies, there are many established sea bird reserves or centres.
The Scottish Seabird Centre has reliable (weather permitting) boat trips on a 12 man rib or catamaran from North Berwick.
