The Inca Tern(Larosterna inca) is a South American bird that is classified in the avian order Charadriiformes and family Laridae.
Physical Characteristics
An adult Inca Tern’s body is mostly gray throughout. This species has a long white “ moustache” which starts at the base of the bill and curls down around the cheeks. There are bare yellow patches at the base of the bill. The legs and bill are red. The average measurements of an adult Inca Tern are as follows: 41 centimeters(1 foot 4.14 inches) long; 195 grams(6.88 ounces) in weight.
Juvenile Inca Terns are blackish, and have small gray tufts at the base of their bills.
| Genus | Larosterna |
| Species | L. inca |
| Binomial Name | Larosterna inca |
| Length | 39-42 cm(1’3”-1’4.5”) |
| Weight | 180-210 grams(6.35-7.4 oz) |
| IUCN Status | Near threatened |
Range And Habitat
The Inca Tern can be seen year round in: Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru. This bird can also occasionally be seen in Panama, Costa Rica, Guatemala, and Hawaii. Inca Terns inhabit islands, or beaches backed by cliffs.
Breeding
Inca Terns nest in burroughs, small caves, under rocks and boulders on island slopes. Inca Terns have also been known to place their nest on human made structures. The clutch size is 1 to 2 eggs. Both parents incubate the eggs and feed the chicks. Inca Terns Mate for life.
Predators
Owls, gulls, and rats prey on Inca Terns.
Diet
Inca Terns eat fish, crustaceans,worms, and insects.
Fun Facts
- The Inca Tern can make calls that sound like a kitten.
- Flocks of Inca Terns can reach 5 000 individuals.
- An Inca Tern’s red beak, red legs and white “moustache” does not develop until it reaches 1-2 years old.
- Inca Terns can live for up to 20 years.
