Mediterranean Gull vs Least Tern
Larus melanocephalus compared with Sternula antillarum
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Attribute | Mediterranean Gull | Least Tern |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Larus melanocephalus | Sternula antillarum |
| Order | Charadriiformes | Charadriiformes |
| Family | Laridae | Laridae |
| Conservation Status | Least Concern | Least Concern |
| Length | — | — |
| Wingspan | 60.5 cm (23.8 in) | 33.0 cm (13.0 in) |
| Weight | 282.5 g (9.96 oz) | 46.75 g (1.65 oz) |
| Diet | -- | -- |
| Clutch Size | 1-5 | 1-3 |
| Population Trend | — | — |
Habitat Comparison
Conservation Status
Least Concern
Mediterranean Gull
Least Concern
Least 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.
Least Tern
Least Tern is North America's smallest tern, 22–24 cm, breeding on sandy beaches and river sandbars from the Atlantic coast to the interior. Endangered (interior subspecies). Yellow bill, white forehead, grey upperparts. Hovers and plunge-dives for small fish in coastal and riverine habitats.