Birdsong field guide
Aleutian Tern
Onychoprion aleuticus
A medium-sized seabird distinguished by its striking white forehead and dark bill, known for its long-distance trans-Pacific migrations. It is more elusive and less colonial than many of its relatives in the genus Onychoprion.
What it sounds like
A high-pitched, multi-syllabic whistle described as 'whee-pee' or 'skee-wher,' lacking the raspy quality of other tern species.
Reference call, compare with what you heard
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Field notes
- It performs an extraordinary migration from subarctic breeding grounds to wintering areas in the tropical waters of Southeast Asia and Indonesia.
- Unlike the harsh, raspy calls of Arctic Terns, the Aleutian Tern produces a melodious, whistle-like sound that is unique among North American terns.
- The species is highly sensitive to colony disturbance and is known to desert nesting sites completely if threatened by predators or human activity.
- Its wings produce a subtle whistling sound during flight, a physical characteristic that aids in field identification for experienced observers.
- Despite breeding in the northern hemisphere, it spends the majority of its year in the southern Indo-Pacific, often staying far out at sea.
Habitat
Coastal tundra, grassy flats near lagoons, and pelagic marine waters during the non-breeding season.
Range
Breeds along the coasts of Alaska and eastern Siberia; winters in the western Pacific, including the Philippines and Indonesia.
Similar & commonly confused birds
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