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Pagham Harbour hosts Little Terns
For the first time in over a decade Little Terns are nesting on Church Norton Spit at Pagham Harbour.

The Little Tern is protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act. The location where they have chosen to nest means that part of the beach and foreshore in front of the spit has been fenced off to prevent disturbance to the birds.

County Council Cabinet Member for Environment and Economy Louise Goldsmith apologised for any inconvenience to the public who may find their usual walking route blocked off while the birds are nesting.

"Under national and international legislation we have an obligation to protect the breeding grounds of these rare shorebirds," Louise explained.

"The Little Tern is a migratory bird and comes to Britain to breed after spending winter in West Africa.

"I apologise for any inconvenience the temporary fencing off may cause to the public, but I would ask for their cooperation in allowing these birds to breed safely and peacefully.

"Little Terns can often be seen feeding at Pagham Harbour, but this is the first time the birds have bred at the Harbour in a decade. We are doing all we can to protect them in their environment."