Gygis alba (Sparrman, 1786)
White tern
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Family:  Laridae ()
Max. size:  33 cm TL (male/unsexed); max.weight: 160.0 g
Environment:  others; marine
Distribution:  Indo-Pacific and Atlantic Ocean
Diagnosis:  Culmen: 3.2 cm; tarsus: 1.44 cm; wing: 25.2 cm.
Biology:  Total Length: 28 to 33 cm; Wingspan: 70 to 87 cm (Ref. 8812). Coastal (Ref. 356). Exclusively marine. Breeds at many tropical and subtropical oceanic islands (Ref. 91362). Solitary breeder; uniquely, lays a single egg on tree branch without any nest. Inquisitive; hovers around nest site in presence of human intruders (Ref. 91362). Exhibits dipping behavior (Ref. 356) or surface diving (Ref. 122680). Feeds mainly on fish (Refs. 81748, 122680) driven to the surface by large, predatory fish (Ref. 122680). Diet consists mostly of juvenile goatfish and flying fish (Ref. 122680).
IUCN Red List Status: (LC); Date assessed: 17 August 2022 Ref. 123251)
Threat to humans: 
Country info:   
 

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