BLACK TERN Meaning and
Definition
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The black tern (Chlidonias niger) is a species of small migratory seabird belonging to the family Laridae. It is widely distributed across North America, Europe, and Asia, and is known for its distinctive black plumage during the breeding season. The black tern measures around 25 to 30 centimeters in length and exhibits a slender body, long wings, and a forked tail. Its plumage is mostly black, with grayish underparts and a black cap extending down the nape. During non-breeding periods, the black tern's coloring changes, with the black plumage becoming more mottled and the cap fading to gray.
Black terns are typically found near bodies of fresh water such as lakes, rivers, and marshes where they forage for small fish, insects, and aquatic invertebrates. They are highly skilled in flight, performing quick and agile maneuvers as they hunt for prey. The black tern is also known for its ability to plunge dive from heights to catch its food.
Breeding colonies of black terns are often formed on marshy habitats with dense vegetation, where the birds construct their nests on floating platforms made of vegetation, reeds, and grass. They lay 2-4 eggs per clutch, which are incubated by both parents for a period of around 21-24 days.
The black tern is considered a species of least concern in terms of conservation status, although populations may be affected by habitat loss due to wetland degradation and pollution. Efforts towards the preservation and restoration of wetland habitats are crucial for the long-term survival of this beautiful and unique bird species.
Common Misspellings for BLACK TERN
- vlack tern
- nlack tern
- hlack tern
- glack tern
- bkack tern
- bpack tern
- boack tern
- blzck tern
- blsck tern
- blwck tern
- blqck tern
- blaxk tern
- blavk tern
- blafk tern
- bladk tern
- blacj tern
- blacm tern
- blacl tern
- blaco tern
- blaci tern
Etymology of BLACK TERN
The etymology of the word "black tern" can be directly traced back to the characteristics and appearance of this bird species. Let's break it down:
1. Black: The term "black" refers to the color of the bird. Black terns, scientifically known as Chlidonias niger, have predominantly black plumage. The word "black" itself originates from the Old English word "blæc", which meant "dark" or "swarthy".
2. Tern: The word "tern" is used to identify and categorize various seabird species belonging to the family Sternidae. The exact origin of the term "tern" is unclear, but it is likely derived from Old Norse, where it is suggested to have meant "one that turns". This could be a reference to the bird's swift and agile flight, often accompanied by twisting and turning movements.
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