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Sterna Elegans Collection

The elegant terns gracefully soar above the incoming wave, their wings spread wide in flight


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The elegant terns gracefully soar above the incoming wave, their wings spread wide in flight. With their sleek bodies and striking plumage, these Elegant Terns (Sterna elegans) captivate all who witness their beauty. One such breathtaking scene unfolds at Bolsa Chica in California during April, where the Elegant Tern Sterna elegans gather in large numbers. Michael S. Nolan captures this spectacle with his lens, showcasing the elegance of these birds as they fly with fish clutched firmly in their beaks on Isla Rasa, located in the Sea of Cortez. Isla Rasa serves as a sanctuary for these magnificent creatures. Nesting on this tiny and remote island situated amidst the middle Gulf of California (Sea of Cortez), Baja California Norte, Mexico; it is estimated that about 95% of the world's population of elegant terns find solace here. In 2007 alone, population estimates revealed that Isla Rasa was home to a significant number of nesting Elegant Terns (Sterna elegans). The isolation and tranquility provided by this haven make it an ideal breeding ground for these remarkable birds. As we marvel at images captured by Michael S. Nolan, we are reminded not only of nature's splendor but also our responsibility to protect and preserve habitats like Isla Rasa for future generations to witness such extraordinary sights.