Species profile
About this species
The Arctic Tern is a seabird renowned for undertaking the longest migration of any known animal, travelling from its Arctic breeding grounds to the Antarctic & back each year. It has a sleek, graceful form with a bright red bill, white & grey plumage, & a deeply forked tail that earns it the nickname sea swallow. Despite its delicate appearance, it is a fierce & bold bird, readily dive-bombing intruders that approach its nesting colony.
Arctic & subarctic coastal regions, tundra, rocky islands & shorelines during breeding season; open ocean & Antarctic waters during migration & winter.
Where to photograph
Where our trips feature this species
You can photograph Arctic Tern with us in Iceland & Scotland.
These departures are part of our Europe programme.
In the field, Robin Lowry helps guests make the most of these encounters.
Field notes
Photography notes
Late May to early August during the breeding season, with overcast days providing soft, even light that suits their white plumage. Early morning offers calm conditions & active feeding behaviour near colonies.
Visit nesting colonies during the breeding season where birds are active & approachable, & use a fast shutter speed of at least 1/2000s to freeze their rapid, agile flight. Shoot from a low angle at eye level to create a more engaging perspective & to capture the sky as a clean background. Wear head protection as terns will strike without hesitation, & use continuous autofocus tracking to keep fast-moving birds sharp throughout a burst.
Available holidays
Trips featuring Arctic Tern
The holidays below are pulled from the same species relationship, so the guide stays tied to live departures rather than becoming a static article.