Aleutian Tern vs Common Tern
Onychoprion aleuticus compared with Sterna hirundo
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Attribute | Aleutian Tern | Common Tern |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Onychoprion aleuticus | Sterna hirundo |
| Order | Charadriiformes | Charadriiformes |
| Family | Laridae | Laridae |
| Conservation Status | Vulnerable | Least Concern |
| Length | — | — |
| Wingspan | 52.4 cm (20.6 in) | 50.7 cm (20.0 in) |
| Weight | 104.88 g (3.70 oz) | 125.75 g (4.44 oz) |
| Diet | -- | -- |
| Clutch Size | 1-4 | 2-3 |
| Population Trend | — | — |
Habitat Comparison
Conservation Status
Vulnerable
Aleutian Tern
Least Concern
Common Tern
About These Birds
Aleutian Tern
Aleutian Tern, 32–34 cm, breeds colonially in Alaska and Russian Far East, wintering in Southeast Asian waters — one of the most poorly tracked migrations among seabirds. Dark grey above, white below, black cap with white forehead. Piscivore; dives for small fish. Near Threatened.
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.