The Inca Tern is a striking species of tern that is found along coastal Peru and Chile. Adult birds are easily recognized by their long white mustachial feathers extending from either side of the beak. Males and females look alike.
Inca Terns breed along rocky coastal cliffs. They nest in depressions on the ground or in burrows, including nest sites previously used by Humboldt Penguins.
As of July 2013, the Inca Tern has a conservation status of Near Threatened. Although they are relatively flexible with regard to nesting locations, loss of suitable habitat is a major factor in the decline of the Inca Tern. Disturbance to habitat from guano harvesting is a possible issue. Commercial fishing may also contribute to a decrease in the population of this piscivorous species.
