Caspian Tern vs Mediterranean Gull
Hydroprogne caspia compared with Larus melanocephalus
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Attribute | Caspian Tern | Mediterranean Gull |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Hydroprogne caspia | Larus melanocephalus |
| Order | Charadriiformes | Charadriiformes |
| Family | Laridae | Laridae |
| Conservation Status | Least Concern | Least Concern |
| Length | — | — |
| Wingspan | 82.1 cm (32.3 in) | 60.5 cm (23.8 in) |
| Weight | 656.0 g (23.14 oz) | 282.5 g (9.96 oz) |
| Diet | -- | -- |
| Clutch Size | 2-4 | 1-5 |
| Population Trend | — | — |
Habitat Comparison
Conservation Status
Least Concern
Caspian Tern
Least Concern
Mediterranean Gull
About These Birds
Caspian Tern
Caspian Tern is the world's largest tern, 48–56 cm, wingspan 127–140 cm, with a massive blood-red bill. Found on all continents except Antarctica. Plunge-dives powerfully for large fish in coastal and freshwater habitats. Migratory; northern populations winter in the tropics. Loud, rasping call.
Mediterranean Gull
Mediterranean Gull, 36–38 cm, has expanded dramatically since the 1970s, breeding across Europe from the Black Sea to Britain. Pure white body, jet-black hood in breeding plumage — the only gull with entirely white wingtips. Piscivore and invertivore; nests in colonies, often with Black-headed Gulls.