Common name: Great Crested Tern
Scientific name: Thalasseus bergii
Family: Laridae

Size:
Body length: 48–52 cm
Wingspan: 125–135 cm
Weight: 350–500 g

Identification:
A large, elegant tern with pale grey upperparts and white underparts. It has a long, slightly downcurved yellow bill and a shaggy black crest that gives it a distinctive appearance. In non-breeding plumage, the forehead becomes whiter while the crest remains partially visible. In flight, it shows long, narrow wings and a graceful, buoyant flight style.

Habitat:
Coastal areas, offshore islands, sandy shores, lagoons, and open seas. Often associated with marine environments.

Status in the UAE:
Common resident breeder. Nests in colonies on offshore islands and is frequently seen along the coastline year-round.

Diet:
Carnivorous — feeds mainly on fish, caught by plunge-diving into the water.

Behavior:
Often seen gliding low over the sea or resting on sandbars. Hunts by hovering briefly before diving into the water. Social and usually found in colonies or loose groups. Frequently associates with other tern species.

Conservation status:
Least Concern (IUCN Red List)