Erne vs. Tern — What's the Difference?

The Erne, or White-tailed Eagle (Haliaeetus albicilla), is one of the largest birds of prey in its habitat, characterized by its impressive wingspan, broad wings, and distinctive white tail, especially noticeable in adult birds. It primarily feeds on fish, waterfowl, and small mammals, often found near large bodies of water like lakes and coastal areas. Whereas Terns, belonging to the family Sternidae, are relatively smaller seabirds, known for their graceful flight, slender bodies, long and narrow wings, and deeply forked tails. Terns are adapted to a life mostly spent over open water, feeding on fish by diving.

While the Erne exhibits a robust and powerful build, suitable for a bird of prey, with a heavier body and larger talons for catching and holding onto its prey, Terns are more delicate and agile, with lighter bodies and smaller beaks, optimized for their aerial lifestyle and fish-catching technique involving high dives into the water.

Ernes are more solitary or found in pairs, especially during the breeding season, nesting in large trees or cliffs, showing territorial behavior. In contrast, Terns are often seen in flocks, especially during migration or in breeding colonies, nesting on the ground in open areas, which makes communal defense against predators possible.

In terms of habitat, Ernes have a preference for larger, open water bodies in relatively remote areas, often in northern regions, where they can hunt and nest with minimal disturbance. Terns, on the other hand, are highly migratory and can be found in a wide range of coastal environments across the world, from temperate to tropical seas, showcasing a remarkable adaptability to different marine environments.