Black-fronted Tern

Chlidonias albostriatus, the tarapirohe, is an endemic tern of South Island braided rivers. It differs from white-fronted tern through its smaller size, orange bill and dark breeding belly. Breeding adults have a black cap, grey body, black belly and bright orange bill and legs. In winter the head becomes white with a dark ear patch.

It breeds on braided rivers east of the Southern Alps and disperses to coasts and lakes. Open shingle islands are essential nesting habitat. It takes insects from rivers and farmland and dips for small fish. Birds often follow tractors to catch exposed invertebrates.

The New Zealand classification is Nationally Endangered. The upper Waitaki Basin and Ashley Rakahuri River offer seasonal sightings from respectful distances.