Mediterranean Gull vs Peruvian Tern

Larus melanocephalus compared with Sternula lorata

Side-by-Side Comparison

Attribute Mediterranean Gull Peruvian Tern
Scientific Name Larus melanocephalus Sternula lorata
Order Charadriiformes Charadriiformes
Family Laridae Laridae
Conservation Status Least Concern Endangered
Length
Wingspan 60.5 cm (23.8 in) 34.7 cm (13.7 in)
Weight 282.5 g (9.96 oz) 52.0 g (1.83 oz)
Diet -- --
Clutch Size 1-5 1-2
Population Trend

Habitat Comparison

Shared Habitats

Mediterranean Gull only

Peruvian Tern only

Conservation Status

Least Concern

Mediterranean Gull

Endangered

Peruvian 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.

Peruvian Tern

Peruvian Tern, 23–25 cm, is an Endangered tern restricted to the Humboldt Current coastline of Peru and northern Chile. White forehead, yellow bill, grey above. Breeds on barren coastal deserts and fishmeal industry areas. Severely threatened by habitat disturbance and introduced predators.

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