Mediterranean Gull vs Bonaparte's Gull
Larus melanocephalus compared with Larus philadelphia
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Attribute | Mediterranean Gull | Bonaparte's Gull |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Larus melanocephalus | Larus philadelphia |
| Order | Charadriiformes | Charadriiformes |
| Family | Laridae | Laridae |
| Conservation Status | Least Concern | Least Concern |
| Length | — | — |
| Wingspan | 60.5 cm (23.8 in) | 51.9 cm (20.4 in) |
| Weight | 282.5 g (9.96 oz) | 204.575 g (7.22 oz) |
| Diet | -- | -- |
| Clutch Size | 1-5 | 1-3 |
| Population Trend | — | — |
Habitat Comparison
Shared Habitats
Mediterranean Gull only
None
Bonaparte's Gull only
None
Conservation Status
Least Concern
Mediterranean Gull
Least Concern
Bonaparte's Gull
About These Birds
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.
Bonaparte's Gull
Bonaparte's Gull, 28–30 cm, is North America's smallest Larus gull, breeding in boreal forests near lakes and wintering on both coasts. Breeding adult has a black hood; underwing shows white triangular flash. Planktivore and piscivore; buoyant, tern-like flight. Migratory; forms large winter flocks.