The Marsh Harrier is a first time breeder within the islands having nearly become extinct in the UK during the 60’s. The Nightjar has not bred in Scilly since the 1940’s, and the Arctic Tern has not bred on the islands for at least 30 years. 

Dave Mawer, Senior Conservation Warden for the Isles of Scilly Wildlife Trust said, “Having these three rare birds breeding in the islands is fantastic news. We work hard to improve habitat and manage the land in the islands for wildlife and having these species here shows that what we are doing works.”

Ben Lascelles, Tern Warden for the Isles of Scilly Wildlife Trust, who runs the Roseate Tern Species Recovery Programme said, “This is my third season working in the islands, and this year the Common Terns are nesting on two rocky islets, Peashopper and Green Island. We also have a pair of Arctic Terns on a nest, the first since the 70’s, and 3 pairs of Sandwich Terns. In recent weeks we also had several sightings of the very rare Roseate Tern. This bird is the subject of a multi-agency conservation programme, that aims to encourage this beautiful bird back to the islands by strengthening the Common Tern colonies.”

The breeding terns face many perils during the summer with eggs a favourite snack for passing gulls, crows, rats and some wading birds. High tides and bad weather also threaten the nest sites. Human disturbance has also become a major issue for some birds in recent years due to the number of tourists that descend upon the islands during the summer. If regularly disturbed, many species are likely to abandon eggs, chicks and nests. 

Dave Mawer said, “While we manage the land for wildlife we also manage it for people. Certain islands are always closed to the public to protect breeding seabirds and seals. Other islands and areas have temporary restricted access each year in an attempt to give the birds the undisturbed breeding space they require. If visiting the islands please enjoy the wildlife but respect the areas that are closed and if you notice that birds flying overhead are interested in your presence you are probably disturbing them at their nest site so please retrace your steps and keep away from them”

If you would like to show your support and help to protect these rare species, you can join the Isles of Scilly Wildlife Trust. For more information and to find out about more rare species breeding in Scilly, tel: 01720 422153