Record Breeding Season for Rare Seabirds in Yorkshire

A nature reserve in Yorkshire has recorded a record-breaking breeding season for one of the UK’s rarest seabirds.

Each spring, little terns migrate from their wintering grounds in West Africa to nest along the British coastline.

Significant Increase in Breeding Pairs

This summer, 105 breeding pairs were recorded at Beacon Lagoons, Yorkshire’s last remaining breeding colony of little terns.
This represents a major increase from 59 pairs in 2024, according to the RSPB.

The organisation described the rise as “a remarkable sign of recovery for a species once in serious decline.”

These are the highest numbers recorded on the Humber Estuary since the early 1970s.

Mike Pilsworth, a conservation officer for the RSPB and chair of the Beacon Lagoons Little Tern Protection Scheme steering group, said: “This year’s leap in numbers can be attributed to the young birds now reaching the age when they return to breed.

“This year’s success gives us real hope that we can continue to grow the population and see little terns recolonise other beaches around the Humber where they haven’t nested for decades.”

Decades of Conservation Work

Since the 1980s, wardens and volunteers have worked to protect the colony. Their efforts have included:

• Installing protective fencing

• Carrying out 24-hour surveillance

• Using thermal cameras to deter predators such as foxes

Local Volunteers Play a Key Role

Holly Fox, from Hull, was among 12 volunteers supporting the birds at the site near Kilnsea this year. Their work helped ensure the little terns had the best possible chance to breed successfully.

She said: “It’s been incredible to see the colony grow year on year. Watching the chicks fledge and knowing you’ve played a small part in giving them that chance is hugely rewarding.

“The local community here has helped us to protect these precious birds too, helping to ensure the little terns have been given the space they need to nest and breed. Everyone is proud of what’s been achieved.”

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At Natural World Fund, we are passionate about restoring habitats in the UK to halt the decline in our wildlife.