Home / Environment / Seabird Success: Razorbills, Terns Thrive in Maine
Seabird Success: Razorbills, Terns Thrive in Maine
16 Sep
Summary
- Razorbills achieved record nesting numbers on Seal Island, reaching 127 nests.
- Common and roseate terns also saw positive nesting outcomes in the region.
- A new electrified fence proved successful in protecting least tern nests.

Razorbills have achieved a record 127 active nests on Seal Island, a significant increase from previous years. This success is part of a broader positive trend for seabirds in the Gulf of Maine. Common and roseate terns also experienced strong nesting seasons across various islands.
Conservationists utilized a new electrified fence on Stratton Island, successfully protecting endangered least tern nests from predators. This innovative approach marks a significant advancement in safeguarding vulnerable seabird populations.
While most species thrived, Arctic terns faced a challenging breeding season due to food scarcity, a stark contrast to the plentiful fish observed for puffins and razorbills. The resurgence of razorbills is being hailed as a multigenerational conservation success story.