Coasting with the Crested Revealing the World of Pegwell Bay's Sandwich Terns

 

Summer brings the arrival of the Sandwich Tern to the UK, a seasonal visitor distinguished by its shaggy crest and coastal breeding preferences. From the Isles of Scilly to Orkney, these terns establish colonies exclusively along the coast, adding a dynamic presence to the region's biodiversity.

These elegant seabirds embark on agile dives, hunting for fish such as sandeels and sprats to sustain themselves and their young during the breeding season. With a whitish-grey upper body contrasting against a pristine white underside, the Sandwich Tern's striking appearance is further accentuated by its distinctive black cap, which transitions to white in winter, and a shaggy black crest. Its short black legs seamlessly match its black bill, adorned with a characteristic yellow tip. Unlike some of its counterparts, this tern species boasts a short tail without elongated 'streamers,' adding to its unique charm.

The history of the Sandwich Tern's presence in the region traces back to 1787 when it was first documented by naturalist John Latham. Inspired by local boys from the town of Sandwich who introduced him to this captivating seabird, Latham's observations marked the beginning of a journey of discovery into the habits and habitats of this remarkable species.

While a few Sandwich Terns linger in British and Irish waters during the winter months, the majority embark on a migratory journey to the coast of West Africa as autumn sets in. Remarkably, approximately 2,000 Sandwich Terns are ringed at their breeding colonies each year, with individuals showcasing impressive longevity and migratory feats. Some have been recorded reaching ages in their late twenties and covering distances exceeding 4,000 km during migration.

Despite fluctuations in population trends, the Sandwich Tern population has maintained relative stability over the years. Seabird censuses spanning several decades reveal a moderate increase followed by a shallow decrease, with recent monitoring indicating continued stability at least until 2019.

Breeding predominantly in large colonies scattered around the coasts of Britain and Ireland, the Sandwich Tern exemplifies resilience in the face of environmental challenges. As a regular wintering species, albeit in small numbers, along the North Sea coast and English south coast, their presence further enriches coastal ecosystems, with records clustered around specific regions such as Strangford Lough in northeast Ireland and inner Galway Bay in the west.

By delving into the migration patterns and population dynamics of the Sandwich Tern, we gain deeper insights into the intricate web of life along Pegwell Bay and beyond. As stewards of these coastal habitats, it is imperative to continue monitoring and conserving these remarkable seabirds, ensuring their presence for generations to come.