Sternaer

Sternaer is a taxonomic term that appears in some fictional, speculative, or alternate-world ornithology contexts to designate a genus of seabirds related to the real terns of the family Laridae. It is not currently recognized as a valid genus by major taxonomic authorities or biodiversity databases, and in standard references it remains unaccepted.

Described descriptions vary, but in general Sternaer is imagined as medium-sized shorebirds with the typical tern form: a slender body, long pointed wings, and a forked tail. Plumage in imagined species usually follows a tern-like scheme—light underside with darker upperparts—and may include distinctive cap, mantle, or wing-color patterns that distinguish Sternaer from real genera such as Sterna or Thalasseus.

Ecology and behavior as described in these contexts portray Sternaer as coastal foragers relying on schooling fish, employing plunge-diving or surface-seizing hunting techniques. They are typically depicted breeding in open colonies on beaches or remote island shores, laying small clutches in simple ground nests.

Taxonomic status and usage: The term is primarily found in speculative guides, fiction, and some modern worldbuilding resources. In formal science, any real taxon named Sternaer would require a formal description and acceptance under the relevant nomenclature codes. Because it is not widely adopted, no recognized species are described under Sternaer.