In a significant win for local biodiversity, an endangered seabird species has established a new nesting colony on a popular Hunter beach for the very first time. The Little Tern, a small migratory bird, has chosen Blacksmiths beach as a breeding ground, marking a pivotal moment for conservation efforts in the region.
A Milestone for a Threatened Species
Little Terns are easily spotted by their distinctive black cap and bright yellow bill. Each spring, these resilient birds undertake an epic migration, travelling thousands of kilometres from their homes in eastern and southeastern Asia to nest on Australian coastlines. Their presence is a barometer for coastal health, but their numbers are fragile.
Previously in the Hunter, the only known local nesting site was on Elizabeth Island off Marks Point. Last season, that colony supported an estimated 50 to 60 adult birds and between 24 and 28 juveniles. The discovery of a second active colony at Blacksmiths represents a crucial expansion of their breeding territory.
Community and Council Rally for Protection
Meg Rice, a volunteer with the Community Environment Network who has monitored the Elizabeth Island colony for three years, emphasised the importance of the find. "There are fewer than 500 breeding pairs across NSW," Ms Rice stated, highlighting the species' precarious status. "It is quite important when they've chosen a site around here that we can offer them as much protection as possible."
She explained that successful breeding attempts often lead birds to return to the same site, offering hope that the Blacksmiths colony could grow in future seasons. The timing, however, presents a challenge as it coincides with the peak summer holiday period.
Lake Macquarie City Council has moved swiftly to safeguard the site. Dominic Edmonds, the council's coordinator of natural assets, outlined the threats. "The nesting area is located in a high-use section of Blacksmiths Beach, which experiences heavy 4WD traffic, dog walking and recreational activity," he said. "These activities pose serious threats to the survival of eggs and chicks."
How the Public Can Help
To give the terns their best chance, temporary fencing and signage have been installed around the nesting area, which is accessed via 4WD trails off Ocean Park Road. This protective zone will remain in place until late February or early March.
Authorities and volunteers are calling on the community to play its part by adhering to several key guidelines:
- Respect all fenced areas and do not enter them.
- Keep dogs on a lead and away from the marked site.
- Avoid driving 4WD vehicles near the nesting grounds.
- Maintain a healthy distance when observing the birds; using binoculars is encouraged.
- Refrain from setting off fireworks or flying drones near the beach.
Ms Rice noted that disturbance is a major risk. "If people can respect the fencing... they can certainly view them from afar. The biggest thing is to make sure people keep a healthy distance because they are easily disturbed," she said.
This local action supports a broader state-wide effort. The NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) has been working to conserve and monitor Little Terns for 25 years, with encouraging results: the breeding population has more than doubled since 2019. The new colony at Blacksmiths beach is a hopeful sign that these concerted conservation measures are paying off, offering a brighter future for these remarkable migratory birds in the Hunter region.
