Little tern colony at Seaton Carew faces worst breeding season since arrival
A little tern colony near Hartlepool has recorded its lowest number of fledglings this year due to flooding and other factors.
Fencing damage caused by tides
High tides earlier this year washed away the protective fencing around the nesting ground. The Tees Valley Wildlife Trust stated that this loss of barrier contributed to difficult conditions for the birds.
Food supply and dog predation
A late arrival of inshore food supply also made the season hard for the seabirds. Wardens noted that dogs entering the exclusion zone further reduced the number of surviving chicks.
Plans to improve the site
The team hopes the colony will recover when birds return from Africa in spring. Volunteers are currently working on plans to improve the site and protect the birds better.
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