Atlantic White Tern vs White-fronted Tern
Gygis alba compared with Sterna striata
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Attribute | Atlantic White Tern | White-fronted Tern |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Gygis alba | Sterna striata |
| Order | Charadriiformes | Charadriiformes |
| Family | Laridae | Laridae |
| Conservation Status | Least Concern | Near Threatened |
| Length | — | — |
| Wingspan | 50.4 cm (19.8 in) | 54.8 cm (21.6 in) |
| Weight | 138.0 g (4.87 oz) | 131.5 g (4.64 oz) |
| Diet | -- | -- |
| Clutch Size | 1 | 1-2 |
| Population Trend | — | — |
Habitat Comparison
Conservation Status
Least Concern
Atlantic White Tern
Near Threatened
White-fronted Tern
About These Birds
Atlantic White Tern
Atlantic White Tern: 28–33 cm, wingspan 76–87 cm, ethereally white seabird with blue-grey bill, blue orbital ring, and large dark eyes. Breeds on tropical Atlantic islands including Ascension and Saint Helena; related species widespread across the Indo-Pacific. Nests on bare branches with no nest material. Feeds on small fish near the surface.
White-fronted Tern
White-fronted Tern, 35–43 cm, is New Zealand's most common tern, breeding on coastal and riverine sites throughout the islands. White forehead contrasts with black cap; orange-red bill. Piscivore; hovers and plunge-dives in coastal waters and off river mouths. Winters on Australian coasts.