(2073) Gelochelidon nilotica affinis.
THE JAVAN GULL-BILLED TERN.
Sterna affinis Horsf., Trans. Linn. Soc, xiii, p. 199 (1821) (Java). Sterna anglica. Blanf. & Oates, iv, p. 311 (part.).
Vernacular names. None recorded.
Description. Similar to the preceding bird but smaller, with a decidedly smaller bill; the colour above is perhaps a trifle paler but the difference is hardly discernible ; the primaries seem to be generally darker.
Colours of soft parts as in the other races.
Measurements. Wing 272 to 292 mm.; tail 91 to 114 mm.; tarsus 30 to 33 mm.; culmen 32 to 35 (once 37) mm.
Distribution. Islands of Malay Archipelago. Once in the Andamans.
Nidification unknown.
Habits similar to those of the preceding bird but apparently more of a coastal and sea bird, less often resorting to the interior of the islands.
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