Conservationists Worry Over Low Little Tern Breeding Success on Miaoli Coast

Conservationists in Miaoli, Taiwan, are expressing concern over the low breeding success rates of Little Terns nesting along the coast. These migratory birds, also known as Bridled Terns, visit Taiwan between May and July, using the coastal areas to nest and lay eggs.

Cao Yan-ming, chairman of the Miaoli County Ecological Society, has observed several Little Tern nesting sites along the Miaoli coast. He conducts weekly patrols to monitor these locations. However, Cao noted a significantly low success rate, with only one out of 19 nests succeeding in Tongxiao, and about six to seven out of 19 in Yuanli. In Zhunan, six out of 14 nests were successful.

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They come here to breed, not just to pass through!

Cao explained that while many nests are established, the actual hatching and fledging rates are poor. He stressed the importance of minimizing human impact, particularly from off-road vehicles that can crush nests and eggs on the sandy beaches. Cao attempts to dissuade drivers when he sees potential threats to nesting sites, stating that while natural disasters cannot be controlled, human-caused destruction can be avoided. The Little Tern's breeding season in Taiwan is brief, lasting only two to three months each year.

Furthermore, Cao mentioned that placing warning signs could inadvertently attract curious individuals, potentially leading to interference or damage to the nesting areas. For this reason, the exact locations of the nesting sites are not publicly disclosed. The conservationists hope that by reducing human disturbance, the Little Terns will have a better chance of successfully raising their young.

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Natural disasters cannot be controlled, but human destruction can be avoided.