An Arctic Tern, a migratory seabird, was recorded at Azheekal Pulimuttu in Kollam district during a seawatch survey conducted along the Kerala coast, marking the first documented sighting of the species in Kollam and only the third record for Kerala. The species had earlier been documented twice in Kannur in July 2024.

The bird was observed and photographed on June 9 by birdwatchers Aadithyan S. and Faizal Fasaluddin during seabird monitoring activities conducted in the monsoon season.

Mr. Aadithyan said the Arctic Tern (Sterna paradisaea) is renowned for undertaking one of the longest migrations in the animal kingdom. The species breeds in the Arctic and migrates annually to Antarctica, covering up to 70,900 kilometres each year, he added.

Mr. Aadithyan said they observed the bird flying rapidly northward along the coastline. It performed a plunge dive into the sea before continuing southward along the coast. During the observation, the bird exhibited rapid flight manoeuvres, frequent hovering, and plunge-diving behaviour.

The sighting was reviewed and confirmed with the support of experienced birdwatchers and tern experts, adding a significant record to Kerala’s ornithological database. Researchers said seawatch surveys are vital for documenting the movement patterns of migratory seabirds and enhancing understanding of marine biodiversity.

Such observations provide valuable insights into seabird occurrence and migration routes along Kerala’s coastline. The latest record is expected to contribute significantly to the study of seabirds in the State and highlights the importance of sustained coastal monitoring efforts.