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Tiny terns complete epic 3,000-mile journey home
2 May
Summary
- Little terns have returned to Seaton Carew after traveling 3,000 miles from West Africa.
- The smallest UK terns are nesting at Seaton Carew, a location they've favored since 2019.
- Conservation efforts are underway to ensure a successful breeding season for the birds.
The first little terns have returned to Seaton Carew, a significant seabird colony in the UK. These small birds, weighing no more than a tennis ball, have completed an impressive journey of approximately 3,000 miles from West Africa.
Since 2019, Seaton Carew beach has been a chosen nesting site for these terns. Protective fencing has been installed around their breeding areas. The Tees Valley Wildlife Trust's warden, Derek Wood, expressed pride in the birds' continued choice of location and committed his team's efforts to a successful breeding season.
Wardens and volunteers will maintain a constant presence, monitoring the birds and engaging with visitors. Gemma Ptak from Hartlepool Borough Council highlighted the privilege of welcoming these important visitors back after their extensive travels. Little terns are expected to depart Seaton Carew by mid to late August. The species is currently listed as amber on the UK's conservation concern list.
