It's now more than 20 days since those first little tern chicks hatched and our smiles grow bigger by the day. Why? Well in the region of thirty pairs attempted to nest and we can officially report that many of the parent birds have witnessed their progeny take that first perilous flight, with over 20 flegdlings so far. The small window of opportunity to recharge the shingle that was washed away during the dreadful winter storms was tiny, and the dogged determination of Wez to create the perfect habitat for the returning birds in such a short space of time has certainly paid off. With just 1 chick fledging in the last 4 years it's safe to say we've had a bumper crop and the future of the little tern in the Solent seems significantly brighter.
Little Tern fledgling in Langstone Harbour
Look to the left of the grass, not one, but actually 2 chicks facing each other
It's easy to forget just how tiny these birds are. Not much bigger than a swallow and weighing in at about 50 grams (the equivalent of about 50 paper clips!) they literally are the featherweights of the seabird world, yet here they are nesting alongside much larger species, perhaps offering them a smidgen of protection from more determined predators.
Putting their size into context!
Taking a bath
The sandwich terns are also fairing well with numbers of flegdlings in the teens, however the common terns are having a bad year, with no chicks so far. Some may be attempting second broods, so fingers crossed.
Sandwich terns and chicks
We are delighted to report that at least 2 ringed plovers have nested on the islands.
Ringed Plover
and finally check out this shy visitor seen in the harbour last week....
Male eider in eclipse