Wildlife

Common Tern Welfare: Colony Management in the UK

Common terns breed in coastal and inland colonies in the UK and active management of predation pressure and nest site provision is essential for colony welfare.

Key Facts

UK common tern populations have declined from around 13,000 to 9,000 pairs over recent decades
They nest on shingle beaches, islands and specially constructed rafts in rivers and lakes
Brown rats are a significant predator at mainland colonies
Tern rafts provide rat-free nesting platforms that have helped maintain some inland populations

Welfare Considerations

Predation by rats, mink, foxes and corvids at colony sites causes loss of eggs, chicks and adults. Disturbance from human recreation causes mass colony abandonment during critical incubation and chick-rearing periods. Competition with black-headed gulls for nesting sites displaces terns to less suitable locations. Active predator control, nest site provision and visitor management are all required to maintain colony welfare.

What You Can Do

Support tern colony management projects including rat control and raft provision
Keep away from tern colonies during the breeding season
Report predation events or disturbance at tern colonies to local wildlife trusts
Volunteer for tern monitoring and wardening at local nature reserves