Fascinating Sooty Tern - Unique Bird Species on Eastern Island (00004837)

Description: The Sooty Tern, scientifically known as Sterna fuscata oahuensis, is a fascinating seabird native to Eastern Island. Approximately 50,000 pairs of these elegant birds nest on the islands. The female lays a single egg either in the sand or on the hard runway surface, a remnant of the past. The colony breeds in a large community, and the young Sooty Terns spend up to three years continuously at sea. They rest on driftwood or sleeping sea turtles on the ocean surface. These birds are excellent hunters and captivate with their graceful flying style.

Location: Hawaiian Islands, Midway, USA

Date of Capture: 17.07.2001