Mediterranean Gull vs Common Tern
Larus melanocephalus compared with Sterna hirundo
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Attribute | Mediterranean Gull | Common Tern |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Larus melanocephalus | Sterna hirundo |
| Order | Charadriiformes | Charadriiformes |
| Family | Laridae | Laridae |
| Conservation Status | Least Concern | Least Concern |
| Length | — | — |
| Wingspan | 60.5 cm (23.8 in) | 50.7 cm (20.0 in) |
| Weight | 282.5 g (9.96 oz) | 125.75 g (4.44 oz) |
| Diet | -- | -- |
| Clutch Size | 1-5 | 2-3 |
| Population Trend | — | — |
Habitat Comparison
Conservation Status
Least Concern
Mediterranean Gull
Least Concern
Common 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.
Common Tern
Common Tern, 31–35 cm, wingspan 77–98 cm, is among the most widespread seabirds, breeding across the Holarctic and wintering in the Southern Hemisphere. Grey back, white below, orange-red bill with dark tip, black cap. Plunge-dives for fish. One of the longest-distance migrants in the Northern Hemisphere.