Scientists at Work: Unraveling the Diet of Least Terns

Researchers from Point Blue Conservation Science will be analyzing the diets of Least Terns, examining dropped fish, feces, and regurgitated pellets collected from local bird colonies.
 Least Tern diets are being used as indicators of the success of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs). By comparing the diets of tern colonies inside MPAs to those outside MPAs, the researchers can see if the MPAs are supporting populations of fish and other prey that make a healthy marine ecosystem. Talk with them and learn what these birds can tell us about the health and productivity of the oceans.