Arctic terns are a pale gray color with plumage that depends on breeding status. Breeding individuals have black feathers on the top of their heads, a red beak and red legs, while non-breeding adults have black beaks and legs and a smaller black cap that forms just around the eye area. Their small, slender bodies mean they are very agile, and can snatch up fish just below the surface of the water, or from other birds.

Arctic terns gather in colonies when it’s time to prepare a nest and give birth. Nesting pairs will defend their nest vigorously from threats—so much so, that some other bird species will nest nearby to benefit from their protection. Once the young can properly care for themselves, adults head back to the open ocean for some space and fresh air. In Yup’ik, the name for Arctic terns is Teqirayuli, which according to the Alaska Native Knowledge Network means roughly, “the dear little bird that is good at using its bottom to disadvantage others.” In other words, their dive-bombing skills are very good!