Roseate tern

Common Name: Roseate tern

Scientific Name: Sterna dougallii

OSPAR Regions where it occurs: II, III, IV, V

OSPAR Regions where under threat and/or in decline: II, III, IV, V

Description: The Roseate Term is a pantropical species with an estimated world population of between 25,00050,000 birds. Within Europe, the Atlantic race S.d.dougallii nests in Ireland, UK , France, the Azores and possibly the Canaries (Cramp, 1985). Between 3-6% breed in the OSPAR region on the Azores and on islets off the east and west coasts of Britain and Ireland, and the north coast of Brittany in France (Tucker & Heath, 1994). They spend only a few months of the year in their European breeding grounds and the winter months in West Africa. The nest sites tend to be concealed amongst rocks, vegetation or artificial cover on isolated marine islands. The birds forage in small groups generally further offshore than other terns, but over shallow water, hydrographic features, or in association with large predatory fish such as tuna.

What is the latest status?

The status assessment describes the latest changes in distribution, abundance and range of the feature, as well as any changes in the threats and pressures impacting the feature. The status assessments are updated regularly and inform OSPAR’s consideration of the effectiveness of the measures and actions that have been adopted and implemented by Contracting Parties.

Why is this feature included on the OSPAR List?
What protective measures and actions has OSPAR committed to taking?
What actions have been implemented by OSPAR?	Overview assessment of implementation of OSPAR Recommendations