‘It’s always a special moment’: Little terns return to Seaton Carew beach
A colony of legally-protected seabirds has made a welcome return to a Hartlepool beach for yet another year.
The legally-protected little terns have once again taken up residence on a stretch of beach at Seaton Carew, in Hartlepool, after nesting there for the first time in 2019.
The tiny seabirds have travelled around 3,000 miles from their wintering grounds in West Africa, returning to the same stretch of beach every year to nest.
To give the birds the best chance of success, Hartlepool Borough Council and staff and volunteers from Tees Valley Wildlife Trust installed protective fencing around the nesting site 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 and night to monitor the birds and help visitors enjoy the spectacle responsibly.
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, 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.”
Over the coming weeks, more birds are expected to arrive, with the colony becoming increasingly active through May and into the summer months.
Tees Valley Wildlife Trust is continuing to welcome volunteers, with opportunities to get involved available throughout the season.
No experience is necessary and full training and support is provided.
To find out more or get involved, contact [email protected] or visit https://www.teeswildlife.org/little-terns-seaton-carew.