Arctic Tern at Long Nanny, Northumberland
Sunshine, blue sky and a great walk around the stunning coastline of Beadnell Bay to visit the Tern colony. Just the one slight issue other than a vague description on the National Trust’s website I didn’t really know where I was going. Fortunately Arctic Terns aren’t known for being shy or reclusive so the colony was fairly easy to find. For visitors unfamiliar with terns the wardens have left a trail of clues that increase with frequency the closer you get.
One for Inspector Clouseau
Located at the southern end of the bay Long Nanny Burn creates a natural barrier that helps to reduce disturbance by dogs. Particularly vulnerable are the Little Terns that nest on the edge of the colony. In addition the eggs and young chicks can be washed out by high tides. Since the National Trust started to provide 24hr nest protection the number of successfully breeding Little Terns has increased from around 3 pairs to 40 pairs. As one of our rarest seabirds the colony is now of national significance.
Arctic Terns nesting amongst the Marram grass at Long Nanny
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- NT Little Tern information
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- Long Nanny Burn
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- Arctic Tern
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- Nesting Arctic Tern
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- Arctic Tern
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- Returning with dinner
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- Nest Protection HQ
Despite the help of the wardens and our friends at Swarovski viewing the Little Terns through the heat haze is difficult. During our visit the best view was from the bridge over the burn with the Little Terns demonstrating a preference for fishing in the fresh water.
Little Tern fishing over Long Nanny Burn – apologies for the distant shot.