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Arctic Tern Sighted in Kerala: A Rare Coastal Discovery
12 Jun
Summary
- An Arctic Tern was sighted for the first time in Kollam, Kerala.
- This marks only the third documented Arctic Tern sighting in Kerala.
- Arctic Terns undertake one of the longest annual migrations globally.
An Arctic Tern, recognized for its immense annual migration, has been sighted along the Kerala coast. The bird was observed on June 9 in Kollam district, representing the first documented sighting for the area and only the third for Kerala. Previously, two sightings were recorded in Kannur in July 2024.
Birdwatchers observed the tern flying northward, performing a plunge dive, and exhibiting swift aerial maneuvers. This significant find adds to Kerala's ornithological records and underscores the importance of coastal monitoring for understanding migratory seabird patterns and marine biodiversity.
The Arctic Tern (Sterna paradisaea) breeds in the Arctic and journeys to Antarctica, covering distances up to 70,900 kilometers annually. Researchers emphasize that such observations are crucial for mapping seabird routes and enhancing knowledge of the state's marine life.
