The first little terns of the season have been spotted at Seaton Carew, marking the start of another exciting chapter for one of the UK’s most important seabird colonies.
The tiny seabirds, which weigh little more than a tennis ball, have travelled around 3,000 miles from their wintering grounds in West Africa, to return to the same stretch of Teesside beach where they nest each year.
Since first choosing Seaton Carew in 2019, little terns have made the site one of the most significant breeding locations for the species in the UK.
To give the birds the best chance of success, working with Hartlepool Borough Council, staff and volunteers from Tees Valley Wildlife Trust installed protective fencing around the nesting area earlier this month. This year has also seen the introduction of an additional inner mesh fence to provide extra protection from predators such as foxes.
Wardens are now on site each day, including overnight, monitoring the birds and helping visitors to enjoy the spectacle responsibly.
A little tern returning to feed chicks. Image credit: Steve Lindsay
Derek Wood, Tees Valley Wildlife Trust Little Tern Warden, said: “It’s always a special moment when the first little terns return. After such a long and challenging journey (3,000 miles!), seeing them back on our shores is a delight and an important step in the success of these birds.
“The fact they continue to choose Seaton Carew is something we’re incredibly proud of, and we’ll be doing everything we can to help them have a successful breeding season.”
Gemma Ptak, Hartlepool Borough Council’s Director of Housing, Communities and Growth, said: “It’s absolutely wonderful and such a privilege to welcome the first of these very important visitors back to Seaton Carew, especially after the massive journey they have undertaken.
“We’re delighted to once again be working with Tees Valley Wildlife Trust to help protect the little terns and make their breeding season a success, and we ask everyone to please play their part as well, by helping ensure the nesting area is not disturbed and by keeping dogs away too.”
The coming weeks will see more birds arriving, with the colony becoming increasingly active through May and into the summer months.
The site offers a rare opportunity to watch these remarkable birds up close as they court, nest and raise their young.
Tees Valley Wildlife Trust is continuing to welcome volunteers, with opportunities to get involved throughout the season. No experience is necessary to volunteer and full training and support is provided.
To find out more or get involved, contact dwood@teeswildlife.org or visit www.teeswildlife.org/little-terns-seaton-carew