Whiskered Tern

　The Whiskered Tern is commonly seen in the Nansei Islands during the spring and autumn migration periods. Its scientific name, Chlidonias, derives from the ancient Greek khelidonios, meaning “swallow-like”, and indeed its flight over rice fields resembles that of a swallow.

　In summer plumage, as suggested by its Japanese name “Kurohara Ajisashi” (Black-bellied Tern), its underparts turn black. However, in winter plumage, the belly becomes whitish and the head takes on a salt-and-pepper appearance.

　On Ishigaki Island, they are often seen in small flocks, particularly over flooded rice fields.