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Crested TernSterna bergii

Description

The Crested tern raises its shaggy crown plumes when it is excited or alarmed. The photo was taken upon the arrival of the ferry to Maria Island ( Great excitement??).

Distribution and Habitat

It is the most common tern in Australia, and is found on coastal and near coastal waters. Nests in large colonies on off-shore islands and secure wharves . Widespread in the Indian and Pacific Oceans.

Food and Feeding

It dives for fish and may flock around shoals. Regurgitates fish for feeding young

Breeding

Crested terns nest on off-shore islands between November and January. The photos show a colony rearing fledglings on the Maria Island Jetty.