The black-fronted tern, sea martin, ploughboy, or tarapiroe (Māori), is a medium-small tern endemic to New Zealand. Black-fronted terns can be found in coastal habitats from the southern tip of the North Island to the eastern South Island as well as Stewart Island. Their breeding range is restricted to the South Island, where they will form breeding colonies on braided river islands.
Region
New Zealand
Typical Environment
Breeds on the gravel islands and shingle bars of braided rivers across the South Island, especially in Canterbury, Otago, and the Mackenzie Basin. During the non-breeding season it disperses to coastal waters, estuaries, harbors, and beaches, reaching the southern North Island and Stewart Island. It favors open, sparsely vegetated riverbeds for nesting and nearby waterways for foraging. Roosts communally on beaches and sand spits outside the breeding season.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1000 m
Climate Zone
Temperate
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also known as the sea martin or tarapiroe (Māori), the black-fronted tern breeds almost exclusively on the braided rivers of New Zealand’s South Island. It faces heavy pressure from introduced predators and habitat modification, leading to marked declines. Outside the breeding season, it shifts to coastal and estuarine habitats, often forming flocks. Its agile, buoyant flight helps it snatch insects over water and gravel bars.
A History of the Birds of New Zealand, Buller, 1888
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
agile with quick, buoyant wingbeats and deft glides
Social Behavior
Nests in loose colonies on gravel islands, with simple scrape nests placed above typical flood lines. Both parents incubate and feed chicks, and adults vigorously mob predators. Outside the breeding season, birds often form flocks along coasts and estuaries.
Migratory Pattern
Seasonal migrant
Song Description
Calls are sharp, chattering trills and kek-kek alarms, especially around colonies. Softer contact notes are given in flight over rivers and foraging sites.
