ONE of the UK's smallest and most vulnerable seabirds commonly found on a west Dorset beach is being saved from decline by volunteers.

The Little Tern, weighing no more than a tennis ball, has seen its population decline since the 1980s, with its numbers dropping by almost 18 per cent since 2000.

Chesil Beach - stretching from Portland to West Bay - is a key habitat for the tiny birds, which have fought coastal flooding, rising sea levels, declining food and disturbance from people, dogs and predators.

In 2022, the Chesil Beach Little Tern Recovery Project saw a big ‘tern’ around in numbers, with a record 55 to 60 fledglings.

The year before, only three surviving Little Tern fledglings were recorded, the result of persistent predation and a hedgehog eating the eggs. 

The seabird colony’s success depends upon a team of volunteers who help protect each year’s chicks.

This is led by the RSPB, in partnership with the Fleet & Chesil Nature Reserve, Dorset Wildlife Trust, Crown Estate, Portland Court Leet & Natural England.

Tara Watson, RSPB Chesil Beach Little Tern Project officer, said: “Our volunteer warden team are what makes the project flourish with their commitment to protecting the birds, their insightful ideas, their vast array of skills and their kindness.

"Everyone is passionate about learning and when I meet with volunteers, I always learn something from them.”

The project is now appealing for volunteers to monitor and protect the colony throughout this year’s breeding season, from April to August.

Tasks include protecting the birds from human disturbance, helping with predator deterrence, carrying out surveys to record breeding activity and supporting practical tasks such as setting up seasonal fencing and hides.

Joe Kaplonek, Chesil Beach Little Tern volunteer, added: “I’ve been volunteering for the project for eight years and I look forward to the sound of Little Terns returning in spring with their burry calls.

"Each year has been different with its own challenges and delights. No prior experience is necessary to become a volunteer, just being able to spend a little of your spare time to give nature a hand.”

Each year volunteers feed the nearby kestrels at their nest sites to encourage them away from the Little Terns.

To find out more and apply to become a volunteer, email chesil.tern@rspb.org.uk