Little Tern

Sternula albifrons is a tiny migratory tern occurring in New Zealand in small numbers. It differs from fairy tern through its black-tipped yellow bill and usually stronger black wing markings. Non-breeding adults show a white forehead, black crown, grey back and dark bill. Breeding birds develop a yellow bill with a black tip.

Small numbers visit northern New Zealand estuaries during the austral summer. The species breeds across Eurasia and parts of Australasia. It hovers before plunge-diving for tiny fish and crustaceans. Birds rest on open sandbars with other small terns.

The New Zealand classification is Migrant. Pūkorokoro Miranda and Manukau Harbour are established sites, although annual numbers are low.