UK Wildlife

Arctic Tern Pole to Pole Migration Champion

The arctic tern holds the record for the longest migration of any animal, travelling from Arctic breeding grounds to Antarctic wintering areas and back each year - around 70,000km annually.

Key Facts

Arctic terns migrate up to 70,000km per year from Arctic to Antarctic and back
A tern banded in the UK was found in Australia - nearly 22,000km from its birth site
UK breeding population around 50,000 pairs, mainly in Scotland and Northern Isles
Dive-bomb and physically strike intruders at nest sites with their sharp bills
Can live over 30 years, accumulating more than 2 million migration km in a lifetime

Welfare Considerations

Arctic terns face threats at multiple points along their extraordinary migration route. Sandeel declines in Shetland have caused breeding failure. Climate change affecting both Arctic breeding grounds and Antarctic wintering areas creates multiple challenges.

What You Can Do

Support climate action to protect arctic tern breeding and wintering habitats
Visit Farne Islands or Shetland to see arctic terns while supporting conservation
Wear protective headgear when visiting tern colonies to protect yourself and avoid stress to birds