Mediterranean Gull vs Little Tern
Larus melanocephalus compared with Sternula albifrons
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Attribute | Mediterranean Gull | Little Tern |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Larus melanocephalus | Sternula albifrons |
| Order | Charadriiformes | Charadriiformes |
| Family | Laridae | Laridae |
| Conservation Status | Least Concern | Least Concern |
| Length | — | — |
| Wingspan | 60.5 cm (23.8 in) | 33.9 cm (13.3 in) |
| Weight | 282.5 g (9.96 oz) | 55.0 g (1.94 oz) |
| Diet | -- | -- |
| Clutch Size | 1-5 | 1-4 |
| Population Trend | — | — |
Habitat Comparison
Conservation Status
Least Concern
Mediterranean Gull
Least Concern
Little 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.
Little Tern
Little Tern is one of the world's smallest terns, 21–25 cm, breeding along coastlines and rivers across Europe, Asia, Africa, and Australia. White below, grey above, with a yellow bill tipped black and a white forehead patch. Hovers and plunge-dives for small fish. Migratory; winters in tropical coasts.