California Least Tern

Sterna antillarum browni

Status: Endangered

The California Least Terns, akin to miniature fighter planes, are known for their captivating dive, where they retract their pointed wings and dive beak-first into water. You can spot these fascinating creatures at the San Elijo Lagoon during the spring and summer. Historically, these birds nested in the coastal dune areas, however, only a fraction of their original habitat remains undisturbed today. It’s encouraging to note that the Nature Collective has dedicated a newly constructed 4-acre nesting site for these birds. The intention is to facilitate the return of these endangered birds to their nesting activities in this region.

Fun Fact:
These smallest of terns look like tiny bombers as they dive into the water after fish.

What’s for Lunch:
Small fishes

Where’s Home:
Coastal dunes and shallow waters in spring and summer; Central and South America in winter