Meet the Louth volunteers scaring off predators at Baltray 'Little Tern' nesting sites

Volunteers in Baltray guard and protect Little Tern nesting sites as part of a long-running conservation initiative. The Little Tern Conservancy Project focuses on protecting a vulnerable breeding seabird by safeguarding shore nesting sites, monitoring birds, managing predators, and raising public awareness. Since 2007, local volunteers have provided round-the-clock wardening throughout the breeding season. During National Biodiversity Week, a Minister of State visited the project and met volunteers. The visit highlighted the Local Biodiversity Action Fund and announced 2026 funding allocations. Seven projects in County Louth are set to receive funding under the scheme administered by the National Parks and Wildlife Service and delivered locally by Louth County Council.

"Volunteers who spend up to 100 hours guarding and protecting 'Little Tern' nesting sites in Baltray showcased the unique conservation project during a Ministerial last week."

"Since 2007, the project has worked to protect shore nesting sites, monitor birds, manage predators, and raise public awareness about the species vulnerability to disturbance. The Local Biodiversity Action Fund supports round-the-clock wardening throughout the breeding season with local volunteers playing a key role."

"The Local Biodiversity Action Fund supports practical projects that assist local authorities in implementing biodiversity actions with projects delivering critical actions under Ireland's National Biodiversity Action Plan. In 2026, seven projects across County Louth received funding, including the Baltray Little Tern Conservation Project."

""I am delighted to welcome Minister O'Sullivan to Drogheda during National Biodiversity Week. The Baltray Little Tern Conservation Project showcases the very best of community-led environmental action.""

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