Little Tern vs Gull-billed Tern

In short

The Little Tern (Sternula albifrons) and Gull-billed Tern (Gelochelidon nilotica) can be distinguished by size and bill shape. Little Terns are smaller with a slender, pointed bill, while Gull-billed Terns are larger and have a robust, thick black bill. Both species have a black cap in breeding plumage, but their size and bill differences are key identifiers.

Identification tips

1. Bill Shape: Little Tern has a slender, pointed bill; Gull-billed Tern has a thick, robust bill. 2. Size: Little Tern is smaller; Gull-billed Tern is larger and more robust. 3. Flight Behavior: Little Tern often hovers and dives; Gull-billed Tern flies more directly. 4. Habitat: Little Tern prefers coastal areas; Gull-billed Tern can be found in both coastal and inland wetlands. 5. Vocalization: Listen for the high-pitched call of the Little Tern versus the more guttural call of the Gull-billed Tern.

Size

The Little Tern is significantly smaller than the Gull-billed Tern, which is medium-sized and more robust.

Plumage

Both species have a black cap in breeding plumage, but the Little Tern has a more slender appearance overall. The Gull-billed Tern has a white body with pale gray upperparts and a slightly forked tail.

Behaviour

Little Terns are more agile in flight, often seen hovering and diving for fish, while Gull-billed Terns have a more direct flight pattern and are less likely to dive.

Habitat

Little Terns are typically found in coastal areas, often near sandy beaches and estuaries. Gull-billed Terns have a broader range, including inland wetlands and coastal regions.

Voice

Little Terns have a high-pitched, sharp call, while Gull-billed Terns have a more guttural, less piercing call.