Kōrero: Gulls, terns and skuas

Arthur, resident Raglan Caspian tern

Arthur, resident Raglan Caspian tern

Jo Thompson's takeaway shop in Raglan has a special visitor each year.

What\'s you story?

Contributed by Jo Thompson

I live in Raglan, New Zealand. I own a takeaways down Marine Parade, on Te Kopua Domain. For the last four years I have had a Caspian tern who visits when it is stormy or when winter is approaching. We have named him Arthur and when we call him he will waddle over. He has never had a mate with him over the years – we do see odd couples of Caspian terns at times. He is very partial to being fed fresh fish. This year he is here in April which is very early – it’s normally around June, July and August. I think he may be a non-breeder as every time he comes he has a speckled head. We look forward every year for Arthur to visit ... it’s nice to think he recognises our voices, and obviously we’re a place to get an easy meal.

Te whakamahi i tēnei tūemi

Jo's Takeaways

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Ngā whakaahua me ngā rauemi katoa o tēnei kōrero

Te tuhi tohutoro mō tēnei whārangi:

Gerard Hutching, 'Gulls, terns and skuas - Caspian and fairy terns', Te Ara - the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, http://www.TeAra.govt.nz/mi/community-contribution/41385/arthur-resident-raglan-caspian-tern (accessed 29 March 2024)

He kōrero nā Gerard Hutching, i tāngia i te 12 Jun 2006, reviewed & revised 17 Feb 2015