Common Tern
Sterna hirundo
Tap image to enlarge · Wikimedia Commons
Overview
Common Terns breed on the rafts at Marshside RSPB, making it one of the more reliable inland spots to watch them. They're agile, graceful birds that make up for the lack of spectacular looks with their aerobatic fishing — hovering then plunging headfirst into the lagoon. The colony is visible from the road bank.
At a Glance
| Order | Charadriiformes |
| Family | Laridae |
| Habitat | Coastal lagoon · Open sea · Beach |
| Diet | Small fish, sand eels — caught by hovering and plunge-diving |
| UK population | Around 12,000 breeding pairs |
| Sefton Coast | Breeding colony on rafts at Marshside RSPB; good numbers offshore at Formby |
| Conservation | UK Amber List |
Where to See It
Marshside RSPB lagoons — nesting rafts provided. Formby Beach offshore.
Identification
Medium tern. Red bill with black tip. Black cap. Pale grey above, white-grey below. Long tail streamers. Orange-red legs.
Viewing & Photography Tips
The Marshside nesting rafts are visible from the road. Breeding birds are tolerant of watching from a distance.
Conservation Status
UK Amber List
This species is on the UK Amber List for Birds (BoCC5), indicating moderate concern. Population monitoring and habitat management remain important for its continued recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Common Terns breed at Marshside RSPB?
Yes. Common Terns nest on specially provided floating rafts on the Marshside RSPB lagoon. The colony is visible from the road bank and the birds can be watched actively fishing over the lagoon throughout the summer. Numbers vary year to year but the rafts are a reliable breeding site.
Related Species
Plan your visit to the Sefton Coast
Marshside RSPB, Formby pinewoods, Ainsdale NNR — practical guides to getting there, what to bring, and the best spots for each season.