The Roseate Tern breeds in scattered locations along the Atlantic Coast from Nova Scotia southward to the Florida Keys. When feeding, the Roseate Tern plunges into water from flight to catch small fish. They like to breed on rocky offshore islands, barrier beaches, and salt marsh islands. The nest is a scrape in the ground and they lay 2 brown eggs with dark speckles and streaks. Both parents incubate, brood, and feed their young. On hatching, the chicks are downy with their eyes open. They are able to walk, but stay in the nest for 22 to 29 days.