The white tern (Gygis alba) is a small seabird found across the tropical oceans of the world. It is sometimes known as the fairy tern although this name is potentially confusing as it is the common name of other species. Other names for the species include angel tern and white noddy. The white terns do not build a nest. Instead, the female lays a single egg on a rare branch, usually where there is a knot or fork to support the egg.