Birds In Alaska Arctic Tern Sterna paradisaea Terns will fly low over the water, flutter to hold position and dive into the water to catch their prey, usually small fish. Terns are easiest recognized in flight by long, narrow, triangular wings and forked tails. The Arctic Tern adults are medium gray on top with a long, deeply forked white tail. They have a bold, black cap over a white face, and a deep red beak. Arctic Terns are ground nesters who will defend their nest area aggressively. Webbed feet (nearly as bright as their beaks) help terns swim very well. Back to: Top | Mr. G's classroom site