Bringing Back the Common Tern
Once the most prevalent tern species in the Lake Champlain Basin, Common Tern numbers dropped from almost 400 nesting pairs in the 1960’s to only 50 in 1988. As a result, in 1989 the common tern was placed on the Vermont Endangered species list.
Through a combination of efforts, including building chick shelters on nesting islands, raising public awareness, and land conservation successes, the Common Tern has once again found its footing on the islands of Lake Champlain.
The Lake Champlain Land Trust, along with its partners, has worked to permanently conserve and protect several important Common Tern nesting islands in Lake Champlain. Through protection of breeding habitat and continual monitoring, Common Terns have soared in number from 50 breeding pairs at the end of the 1980’s to 275 pairs in 2013!
Conservation Success
The Lake Champlain Land Trust has saved the following islands, all of which represent primary or secondary habitat areas for this critical species. Please note: As bird sanctuaries, there is no public access to these islands. Please do not paddle or boat close to nesting birds.
Gramma’s Island (North Hero, VT) – Sitting just off the southeastern tip of Butler Island, this 1.5-acre island provides important habitat for a variety of birds.
Rock Island (Georgia, VT) – This small rocky outcrop in St. Albans Bay has served as an important nesting spot for the Common Tern.
Upper Fish Bladder Island (South Hero, VT) – This private island located two miles from the nearest shore includes important bird nesting habitat.
