Sooty Tern

🔍 Overview

An exceptionally rare vagrant from tropical oceans. Extremely few UK records, but possible after hurricanes or major storms.

🪶 Key Identification Features

Black upperparts, white underparts

Black cap and nape, long pointed wings

Sleek, agile flight

🗺️ Habitat & Distribution

Only expected after extreme Atlantic weather events; may be spotted offshore from Seaford, Selsey, or Brighton.

🎶 Voice & Behaviour

Usually silent in UK waters. Very graceful, buoyant flight style similar to other terns.