Fairy Tern breeding on French Island, Western Port, Victoria

Breeding of Fairy Terns Sternula nereis at the two current breeding sites in Western Port, both on French Island, Victoria, has been documented over more than four decades. At the main site, Rams Island, there has been great variability annually in the numbers of Terns breeding but no significant trend. This breeding colony has persisted for over 40 years, which has not happened at any other Fairy Tern colony in Victoria. There are only three breeding records for Tortoise Head. Current management of the breeding sites appears to be successful and this pattern should be maintained. Priorities include continued monitoring of breeding, and control of feral cats and weeds.