STATUS AND DISTRIBUTION OF THE ROSEATE TERN IN SOUTH AFRICA

Summary

Randall, R. M. & Randall, B. M. 1980. Status and distribution of the Roseate Tern in South Africa. Ostrich 51:14-20.

The Roseate Tern Sterna dougallii population in Algoa Bay is the largest, and now possibly the only breeding population in southern Africa. The two mainland breeding sites at Cape Recife and Kommetjie have been deserted, and in recent years the last remaining breeding site outside Algoa Bay may have been abandoned. Consequently the present estimate of between 70 and 80 breeding pairs in Algoa Bay may represent the entire southern African population. The decline in numbers from hundreds in 1937 is ascribed to human interference. Although the species is rare and endangered in southern Africa, it has a world wide distribution and is in no immediate danger of extinction.