Mediterranean Gull vs River Tern
Larus melanocephalus compared with Sterna aurantia
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Attribute | Mediterranean Gull | River Tern |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Larus melanocephalus | Sterna aurantia |
| Order | Charadriiformes | Charadriiformes |
| Family | Laridae | Laridae |
| Conservation Status | Least Concern | Vulnerable |
| Length | — | — |
| Wingspan | 60.5 cm (23.8 in) | 52.4 cm (20.6 in) |
| Weight | 282.5 g (9.96 oz) | 187.5 g (6.61 oz) |
| Diet | -- | -- |
| Clutch Size | 1-5 | 3-4 |
| Population Trend | — | — |
Habitat Comparison
Conservation Status
Least Concern
Mediterranean Gull
Vulnerable
River Tern
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.
River Tern
River Tern, 38–43 cm, is a large freshwater tern of South and Southeast Asia, found along major rivers from Pakistan to Thailand. Yellow-orange bill, grey back, black cap in breeding plumage. Piscivore; plunge-dives into clear river water. Near Threatened due to river sand-mining and disturbance.