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The Arctic Tern has made a remarkable return to India after an absence of approximately 96 years.

In the past week, eBird has recorded over 90 sightings of this remarkable bird.

Earlier this week, it was spotted in Mumbai, prompting birdwatchers from all over the country to gather and witness this rare occurrence.

Documentation from Indianbirds.in indicates that the last confirmed sighting of the Arctic Tern in India was in 1928, specifically in the Ladakh region.

This small, graceful bird is easily recognized by its gray and white plumage and pointed wings, and it is renowned for its extensive migratory journey. The Arctic Tern travels from its breeding grounds in the Arctic to the warmer climates of Antarctica, covering an impressive distance of approximately 25,000 miles.

Typically, Arctic Terns forage in groups and nest in colonies on the ground. They are frequently seen resting on ice and flying with a distinctive grace.

The oldest documented Arctic Tern was at least 34 years old when it was recaptured and subsequently released in Maine. While these birds can live for several decades, they often exhibit a delay in commencing their breeding activities.

The oldest recorded Arctic Tern was at least 34 years old when it was recaptured and later released in Maine. Although their lifespan can extend well beyond several decades, they tend to be somewhat delayed in initiating their breeding activities.

Birdwatching in India is on the rise, with Mumbai emerging as one of the premier destinations for avid birdwatchers. The city offers numerous locations where enthusiasts can indulge in their passion for observing birds.

This pelagic bird embarks on an annual migration from one pole to the other, leaving the Arctic Circle during the winter months to reach the Antarctic summer, and then returning in the opposite direction.

Traditionally, India is not a common stop on its migratory route, which is why birdwatchers from across the country gather to catch a glimpse of this species.

Pradnyavant Mane, an avid birdwatcher from Mumbai who has recorded 905 lifers, noted that the sighting occurred on August 7 while he was traveling on a jetty towards the Elephanta Caves in search of elusive pelagic bird species.

A birdwatching enthusiast commented that the monsoon season is typically not a popular time for birdwatching. However, this year has been different, as several rare birds have been spotted.

It is also possible that the bird may have visited the Indian subcontinent previously without being observed or documented.

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