Arctic tern

The Arctic tern, also known by its scientific name Sterna paradisaea, is a bird that has earned the title of the ultimate world traveler. It is a small bird that weighs only about 100 grams and is about the size of a seagull, but don’t let its small size fool you. This bird has been known to fly over 44,000 miles in one year, which is more than any other bird in the world.

If you happen to come across an Arctic tern, you may hear its distinctive call, which sounds like it’s saying “FOLLOW ME!” Of course, we don’t recommend actually following this bird, unless you want to end up in the Arctic, which is not exactly the ideal vacation spot.

The Arctic tern’s migration is not just a straight shot, but rather a zig-zagging journey that takes it from one end of the globe to the other. It spends its summers in the Arctic, feasting on fish before embarking on its long journey south to warmer climates for the winter. It migrates all the way down to the Antarctic, which is the equivalent of a human traveling from the North Pole to the South Pole and back again - a feat that requires a lot of frequent flyer miles, or in this bird’s case, frequent flyer flaps.

The Arctic tern has a pretty intense personality, marked by its aggressive behavior towards any intruders in its territory, including puffins, gulls, and even humans. It’s almost as if it has a bit of a complex about its small size, like a chihuahua that thinks it’s a Doberman.

So, if you ever find yourself face to face with an Arctic tern, remember to nod respectfully and slowly back away, unless you’re looking for a good peck on the head. And if you’re feeling adventurous, follow the Arctic tern’s lead and embark on a journey of your own. Just make sure to pack plenty of fish and wear layers, because the Arctic can get pretty chilly.