Little White Tern
Gygis microrhyncha
Introduction
Small seabird in family Laridae. Endemic to French Polynesia and the Republic of Kiribati, including the Phoenix and Line Islands. Previously classified as a subspecies of the white tern (Gygis alba microrhyncha) but now recognized as a distinct species. Distinguished from the common white tern by its much smaller size, more slender bill, and white feather calamus (quill) versus black calamus in its relative. First described from specimens collected in the Marquesas Islands.
Description
A compact seabird, notably smaller than the common white tern. Features a more slender bill and shorter, more rounded wings than its relative. The tail is less deeply forked. The calamus (quill) of the feathers is distinctly white, contrasting with the black calamus found in common white terns. The species has been described as having a 'goggle-eyed' appearance.
Identification
Distinguished from the common white tern by its smaller overall size, more slender bill, shorter and more rounded wings, and less deeply forked tail. The white calamus of the feathers is a key distinguishing feature visible in flight or when plumage is examined. The compact body structure and prominent eyes are also characteristic.
Distribution & Habitat
Ranges throughout French Polynesia and the Republic of Kiribati, including the Phoenix and Line Islands. The species was first described from specimens collected in the Marquesas Islands. Inhabits tropical oceanic islands.
Source: Wikipedia · CC BY-SA 3.0
Taxonomy
- Order
- Charadriiformes
- Family
- Laridae
- Genus
- Gygis
- eBird Code
- whiter5
Distribution
Marquesas, and Phoenix and Line islands
Data Sources
Species description from Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0.
Taxonomy data from AviList 2025.