Sterninae is a plural noun that refers to a subfamily of seabirds belonging to the family Laridae. This subfamily is commonly known as the terns, a highly specialized group of coastal and marine birds that are well-known for their graceful flight, elegant appearance, and distinctive hunting techniques.
Terns are medium-sized birds, typically measuring between 30 and 40 centimeters in length, with long, pointed wings, forked tails, and slender bodies. They have a streamlined shape that enables them to perform agile aerial maneuvers as they hunt for fish in the open ocean. Terns possess excellent diving abilities and are capable of plunging into the water from significant heights to catch their prey.
The Sterninae subfamily comprises approximately 45 species distributed worldwide, with the majority inhabiting coastal regions, particularly in temperate and tropical zones. Terns are often found in large colonies, nesting on sandy or rocky shores, saltmarshes, or even in trees. They build simple nests on the ground or in vegetation, where they lay one or two eggs per breeding season.
Terns are known for their loud, shrill calls, which they use for communication and to defend their territories. They are known to be highly migratory, with some species undertaking remarkable long-distance journeys during their annual migrations.
Due to their aesthetic appeal and important ecological roles, terns have become a popular subject among birdwatchers and bird photographers. However, like many other seabirds, tern populations face various threats, including habitat degradation, pollution, and climate change, which necessitate conservation efforts to ensure their long-term survival.
