Arctictidae

Arctictidae is a family of seabirds that includes the Arctic terns and Sandwich terns. These birds are medium-sized, with most species ranging in length from 30 to 40 centimeters (12-16 inches). They have a distinctive silvery-gray backs, white underparts, and a black beak and legs. The plumage of these birds serves as camouflage, allowing them to blend in with the sea and sky.

The Arctictidae are found in the Northern Hemisphere, typically inhabiting coastal areas, islands, and islets. They are pelagic birds, meaning they spend most of their time on the open sea. They are expert flyers, with the fastest recorded speed of any bird on record, reaching up to 88 kilometers per hour (55 miles per hour).

Arctic terns are known for their remarkable migration patterns. Every year, they travel from their breeding grounds in the Arctic to the Antarctic and back, a journey of approximately 44,000 kilometers (27,000 miles). This is one of the longest migrations of any animal. During their migration, they can be found at sea, where they feed on small fish, crustaceans, and squid.

Arctic terns are monogamous birds, with pairs forming during their breeding season. They build nests on the ground or on rocky outcroppings, laying one to three eggs per clutch. Both parents take turns incubating eggs and caring for their young. The chicks fledge after about 35-40 days, at which point they become independent.