Mediterranean Gull vs Forster's Tern
Larus melanocephalus compared with Sterna forsteri
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Attribute | Mediterranean Gull | Forster's Tern |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Larus melanocephalus | Sterna forsteri |
| Order | Charadriiformes | Charadriiformes |
| Family | Laridae | Laridae |
| Conservation Status | Least Concern | Least Concern |
| Length | — | — |
| Wingspan | 60.5 cm (23.8 in) | 50.5 cm (19.9 in) |
| Weight | 282.5 g (9.96 oz) | 151.25 g (5.34 oz) |
| Diet | -- | -- |
| Clutch Size | 1-5 | 2-3 |
| Population Trend | — | — |
Habitat Comparison
Conservation Status
Least Concern
Mediterranean Gull
Least Concern
Forster's 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.
Forster's Tern
Forster's Tern, 33–36 cm, breeds in interior North American marshes and winters along both US coasts and into Mexico. Distinctive frosted silver upperparts and orange-based bill. In non-breeding plumage, shows a black eye-mask. Piscivore; hovers and plunge-dives in coastal bays and lagoons.