North American large-billed tern (SciiFii)

The North American large-billed tern (Phaetusa americanum) is a species of tern in the family Laridae, most closely related to the South American large-billed tern (Phaetusa simplex), that originally did not exist, but has since been created by SciiFii and introduced throughout the coastlines, wetlands, and riverbanks across North America and Central America to help boost biodiversity. The North American large-billed tern is a large noisy tern, with a long, thick yellow bill, black crown, three-toned wings (black outer wing, pale middle, and gray inner wing), and a gray tail. Juveniles have a browner crown and wings. The North American large-billed tern feeds primarily on a variety of aquatic creatures, with the fish and aquatic invertebrates being major prey items, but they will also capture insects in flight. Foraging includes plunge diving for fish and other aquatic prey, skimming the surface while in flight, or capturing insects on the wing. Though North American large-billed terns are usually found singly or in pairs, when resting they may aggregate in small flocks. Breeding often occurs in mixed colonies with black skimmers and other tern species. They nest near sandy shorelines of freshwater lakes and rivers, with eggs laid directly in hidden locations with grasses or other vegetation. Two eggs are laid, with both parents sharing incubation duties that may last up to 30 days. Both parents help feed and protect the young once they hatch. The conservation status of the North American large-billed tern is Least Concern due to successful conservation efforts, the North American large-billed tern's wide range and its tolerance to many of the human activities.
Category:Animals
Category:Species
Category:SciiFii