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Changes in Fishing Ability of Terns associated with Windspeed and Sea Surface Conditions

Abstract

THE terns are a group of largely marine fish-feeders, many of which obtain their prey by skilful air-to-water plunge diving. Previous observers have assumed that light winds and rippling of the water surface either have no effect1 on the fishing success of terns or else are detrimental2, but there has been no direct evidence to support either view. To investigate this problem, a study of Sandwich terns (Sterna sandvicensis) and common terns (Sterna hirundo) was carried out in Northumberland, England.

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References

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DUNN, E. Changes in Fishing Ability of Terns associated with Windspeed and Sea Surface Conditions. Nature 244, 520–521 (1973). https://doi.org/10.1038/244520a0

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