Aleutian Tern vs Forster's Tern
Onychoprion aleuticus compared with Sterna forsteri
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Attribute | Aleutian Tern | Forster's Tern |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Onychoprion aleuticus | Sterna forsteri |
| Order | Charadriiformes | Charadriiformes |
| Family | Laridae | Laridae |
| Conservation Status | Vulnerable | Least Concern |
| Length | — | — |
| Wingspan | 52.4 cm (20.6 in) | 50.5 cm (19.9 in) |
| Weight | 104.88 g (3.70 oz) | 151.25 g (5.34 oz) |
| Diet | -- | -- |
| Clutch Size | 1-4 | 2-3 |
| Population Trend | — | — |
Habitat Comparison
Conservation Status
Vulnerable
Aleutian Tern
Least Concern
Forster's 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.
Forster's Tern
Forster's Tern, 33–36 cm, breeds in interior North American marshes and winters along both US coasts and into Mexico. Distinctive frosted silver upperparts and orange-based bill. In non-breeding plumage, shows a black eye-mask. Piscivore; hovers and plunge-dives in coastal bays and lagoons.