Arctic tern

Definition

The arctic tern is a migratory bird known for its remarkable long-distance migration, traveling from its breeding grounds in the Arctic to wintering locations in the Antarctic. This incredible journey can cover over 70,000 kilometers (about 43,500 miles) annually, making it one of the most traveled species on Earth. The arctic tern uses various navigational strategies, including the position of the sun and stars, to find its way during these extensive migrations.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Arctic terns are known to have one of the longest migration routes of any animal, traveling between the Northern and Southern Hemispheres each year.
2. These birds have an impressive sense of direction and can navigate using a combination of visual landmarks, celestial cues, and Earth's magnetic field.
3. During migration, arctic terns may travel thousands of kilometers over open ocean with minimal rest stops, showcasing their endurance and adaptability.
4. Arctic terns breed in colonies on coastal tundra and prefer areas with abundant food sources, such as fish and invertebrates.
5. Their migratory pattern allows them to experience two summers each year, maximizing their feeding opportunities and overall survival.

Review Questions

• How do arctic terns demonstrate unique migratory behaviors compared to other bird species?
  • Arctic terns are distinguished by their extreme migratory behavior, as they travel between breeding grounds in the Arctic and wintering sites in the Antarctic. Unlike many other bird species that may migrate shorter distances or stay within a single hemisphere, arctic terns cover over 70,000 kilometers annually. This extraordinary migration is driven by their need for food and suitable breeding conditions, showcasing their adaptability to different environments across vast distances.
• Discuss the navigational strategies utilized by arctic terns during their migrations and how these compare to other migratory birds.
  • Arctic terns employ a variety of navigational strategies during their migrations, including celestial navigation using the sun and stars, visual landmarks, and possibly even sensing Earth's magnetic field. This multi-faceted approach allows them to accurately travel long distances over open ocean. Compared to other migratory birds that may rely more heavily on geographic cues or specific environmental signals, arctic terns' use of multiple methods highlights their remarkable adaptability and sophistication in navigation.
• Evaluate the ecological significance of the arctic tern's migration patterns in relation to global environmental changes.
  • The migration patterns of arctic terns are ecologically significant as they illustrate the impacts of global environmental changes on avian behavior. Their ability to migrate between extreme environments allows them to capitalize on seasonal food availability but also makes them vulnerable to shifts in climate and habitat destruction. As climate change alters ocean temperatures and food distribution, understanding arctic tern migrations provides insights into broader ecological trends and helps highlight the importance of conserving migratory routes essential for their survival.

Related terms

Migration:

The seasonal movement of animals from one region to another, often driven by changes in climate, food availability, or breeding conditions.

Navigation: The process by which animals determine their position and plan their route during migration or movement across distances.

Phenology: The study of cyclic and seasonal natural phenomena, particularly in relation to climate and plant and animal life cycles.