Wildlife

Wild Black Tern Migration Welfare

Black terns are passage migrants through the UK in spring and autumn, with individual welfare during migration linked to wetland refuelling habitat quality.

Key Facts

Black terns breed in continental Europe and migrate through the UK between breeding and wintering grounds
They forage over freshwater lakes and reservoirs, catching insects and small fish
Suitable refuelling lakes with good insect availability are essential for tern welfare during migration
UK sightings are most frequent in May and August to September
Wetland eutrophication reduces invertebrate food availability at key passage sites

Welfare Considerations

Black tern passage welfare depends on freshwater habitat quality at UK refuelling sites. Maintaining clean, productive freshwater habitats supports individual tern welfare during migration.

What You Can Do

Record black tern passage sightings at freshwater sites to contribute to migration monitoring
Support freshwater wetland quality improvement in your catchment
Advocate for reduced agricultural nutrient run-off to maintain freshwater invertebrate communities