Little Tern
Sternula albifrons
Tap image to enlarge · Wikimedia Commons
Overview
The Little Tern nests on Formby and Ainsdale beaches — fragile scrapes on the upper beach above the tide line. They're the smallest tern and one of the most vulnerable beach-nesting birds, subject to predation, human disturbance and extreme weather. The RSPB and Natural England wardening schemes protect the colonies. Watch from the appointed viewpoints rather than approaching the beach during nesting season.
At a Glance
| Order | Charadriiformes |
| Family | Laridae |
| Habitat | Sandy beach · Dune edge · Inshore sea |
| Diet | Sand eels, small fish caught by hovering and plunge-diving |
| UK population | Around 1,900 breeding pairs in the UK — one of the most threatened seabirds |
| Sefton Coast | Small colony at Formby/Ainsdale beaches; wardened by RSPB and Natural England in season |
| Conservation | UK Amber List |
Where to See It
Formby and Ainsdale beaches. Nests in scrapes on upper beach. View from approved viewpoints only.
Identification
Very small tern. Yellow bill with black tip. White forehead. Rapid, flickering wingbeats. Yellow legs. Hovers before diving.
Viewing & Photography Tips
View from the sand dune edge at approved viewpoints — there are usually RSPB signs in season. Don't let dogs onto the upper beach.
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
Where do Little Terns nest at Formby?
Little Terns nest in shallow scrapes directly on the upper beach sand at Formby and Ainsdale, above the high tide line. The nests are virtually invisible — just a slight depression with 2–3 speckled eggs. RSPB and Natural England wardens protect the colony from May–August; look for the advisory signs on the beach.
Are dogs allowed on the beach during Little Tern nesting season?
Dogs must be kept away from the upper beach in the areas where Little Terns nest (typically May–August). Wardened fencing and signs mark the exclusion zones. A single dog running through the nesting area can flush all birds and destroy the entire colony's season.
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.