A little tern colony has experienced its toughest breeding season since establishing themselves at a site.

Since 2019 the seabirds have travelled about 3,000 miles (4,828km) from West Africa to Seaton Carew, near Hartlepool.

But this year the colony’s 83 nesting pairs produced just 17 fledglings, compared to 67 in 2025.

Tees Valley Wildlife Trust said flooding and damage to the colony’s perimeter fence contributed to difficult conditions for the birds.

The protective fencing around the nesting ground was washed away in high tides earlier this year.

Lead warden Derek Wood said a late arrival of their inshore food supply as well as predation also contributed to the birds’ tough season.

In June, it was reported numbers were down 50%, which the team attributed to dogs being inside the exclusion zone.

“The season has been a difficult one for the dedicated wardens and volunteers who work tirelessly to protect the colony,” Wood said.

But the team is hopeful the colony can bounce back when they return from Africa in spring, with plans to improve the site and further protect the birds under way.

Little Terns are currently classed as amber on the UK list of conservation concern.

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