Inca Tern, Larosterna incaimage credit: Mark Eastment

Inca Tern, Larosterna incaimage credit: Ungulate Dave

Inca Tern, Larosterna incaimage credit: klein.com

Inca Tern, Larosterna incaimage credit: photopharmer

Inca Tern, Larosterna incaimage credit: Flipped Out

Inca Tern, Larosterna incaimage credit: ibc.lynxeds.com
Habitat: Chile & Peru
Status: Near Threatened


The Inca Tern (Larosterna inca) is the only member of the genus Larosterna, which makes sense since there really isn’t any other bird (that I’m aware of) that resembles this magnificent bird.

It’s easily distinguishable by its grey plumage, red beak lined with yellow skin, and most importantly its prominent white mustache! Immature birds don’t aren’t born with the sexy look from the get-go though. Nope, they’re actually purple-brown and then gradually develop the sweet ‘stache.