Preparations begin for little terns’ return to Hartlepool

Little terns are expected to arrive at a small stretch of beach in Seaton Carew later this month after making a 3,000-mile trip from West Africa.

The small seabirds weigh just 40 to 60g and have been returning to Seaton Carew every year since 2019 to nest and raise their young.

To protect the birds, Hartlepool Borough Council and Tees Valley Wildlife Trust have installed a protective perimeter fence on the beach as well as an internal mesh fence to act as a defence against predators such as foxes.

Wardens and volunteers will be on site from mid to late April, monitoring the colony and speaking with visitors about the little terns.

Gemma Ptak, Hartlepool Borough Council’s director of housing, communities and growth, said: “We are really looking forward to welcoming the little terns back again to Hartlepool, especially as they have flown such a long way to nest on this beach, and we are delighted to once again be working with Tees Valley Wildlife Trust to help protect them.

“People have a vital role to play in helping to support a new generation of little terns, and we would encourage them to get involved through the warden roles.

"We would also once again ask everyone to please play their part by avoiding disturbing the site by keeping clear and keeping dogs away too. We – and the little terns – will be very grateful.”

Little tern warden Derek Wood said: “It’s always an exciting time of year as we prepare for the terns to return.

"The fact that these birds travel thousands of miles and choose to nest here at Seaton Carew is something really special for the area.

"With the right protection and support, we can give them the best possible chance to raise their young successfully.”

Paid day and night warden roles are available this year to help monitor the site and speak to visitors, and no experience is needed.

To find out more or get involved, contact [email protected] or visit https://www.teeswildlife.org/who-we-are/jobs/.