Mediterranean Gull vs Kerguelen Tern
Larus melanocephalus compared with Sterna virgata
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Attribute | Mediterranean Gull | Kerguelen Tern |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Larus melanocephalus | Sterna virgata |
| Order | Charadriiformes | Charadriiformes |
| Family | Laridae | Laridae |
| Conservation Status | Least Concern | Near Threatened |
| Length | — | — |
| Wingspan | 60.5 cm (23.8 in) | 50.0 cm (19.7 in) |
| Weight | 282.5 g (9.96 oz) | 127.5 g (4.50 oz) |
| Diet | -- | -- |
| Clutch Size | 1-5 | 1-2 |
| Population Trend | — | — |
Habitat Comparison
Conservation Status
Least Concern
Mediterranean Gull
Near Threatened
Kerguelen 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.
Kerguelen Tern
Kerguelen Tern, 31–33 cm, is restricted to a handful of sub-Antarctic islands including Kerguelen and Crozet. Darker grey than Antarctic Tern, with reddish bill. Piscivore and invertivore; forages in kelp beds and coastal waters. Near Threatened; small, isolated population vulnerable to introduced predators.