While a small number of Sandwich terns winter along the south coast, the appearance of migrants returning from Ghana and Senegal tends to coincide with the reopening of the marked swim zone at the beginning of May. The sea is noticeably warmer today, so for the first time this year, we strike out for the buoys. The council is in the process of replacing the faded buff-coloured balls with vibrant yellow cans, and the terns have taken a shine to these new flat-topped perches.
Approaching the first marker, I can appreciate the two birds atop at close quarters. The largest of the five tern species that nest in the UK, they are similar in size to the black-headed gulls wheeling overhead. Though they lack the elegance of common and little terns, which also frequent the harbour, their crested black caps give them a raffish air.
