Arctic Tern

Sterna paradisaea is an exceptional long-distance migrant recorded in New Zealand waters. It differs from Antarctic tern through subtle wing patterns, proportions and its Northern Hemisphere breeding origin. Breeding adults have a black cap, red bill and deeply forked tail. Non-breeding birds show a white forehead and dark bill, demanding careful identification.

It breeds around the Arctic and migrates toward Antarctic waters, with some birds passing New Zealand. Records are mainly coastal or pelagic and seasonally irregular. It plunge-dives for fish and marine invertebrates. Migrants track productive waters and may associate with other terns.

The New Zealand classification is Migrant. Subantarctic voyages and pelagic trips offer a chance, but expert confirmation is usually needed.