Document ID: chunk:federal_register_of_legislation:F2022L00775:reg:18:p106
Version: federal_register_of_legislation:F2022L00775
Segment Type: reg
Provision Reference: reg 18 (pt 106/152)
Character Range: 331996–335027

Perrins 1998) and feeding singly, in small loose groups (Snow and Perrins 1998) or in flocks of many hundreds of individuals (Urban et al. 1986, Snow and Perrins 1998). It is regularly found in mixed species flocks with Lesser Noddy (Anous tenuirostris) and White Tern (Gygis alba) (Ramos 2000). Its diet consists predominantly of small pelagic fish (Urban et al. 1986, del Hoyo et al. 1996; Surman and Wooller 2003).

Population Estimates and Trends
The global population is estimated to number 200,000–220,000 individuals (Delany and Scott 2006). The overall population trend is uncertain, as some populations are decreasing, while others are increasing or stable (Delany and Scott
2006). The Australian population has been estimated to be at least 15,000 pairs (Milton et al. 1996). Recent Australian population estimates and trends are unknown.

Conservation Concerns and Actions
Predators of eggs and chicks include the White-bellied Sea-Eagle (Haliaeetus leucogaster), Silver Gulls (Chroicocephalus novaehollandiae) and lizards (Higgins & Davies 1996; Hulsman et al. 1999). Ruddy Turnstones (Arenaria interpres) and large skinks (Egernis kingii) are also suspected predators in some locations (Hatch & Szczys 2000). The Black Rat (Rattus rattus) is a suspected introduced predator; after a rat baiting program on Wreck Island (Great Barrier Reef) the production of young increased (Burbidge & Fuller 1998; Hulsman et al. 1999).

Wildlife Conservation Plan for Seabirds 143
 Species profiles

Crushing of chicks and eggs and disruption of breeding due to human activity is likely to be an issue in areas with moderate visitation (Stokes et al. 1996). Storm surges, combined with high tides, can lead to total loss of eggs and young (Stokes et al. 1996); therefore rising sea-levels may threaten breeding populations in the long-term.

 Recommended Management Actions
         Quantify the breeding population in Australia

         Regularly monitor breeding populations at index locations

         Determine non-breeding areas and migration routes

         Quantify and manage the potential impacts of human disturbance

         Control, or eradicate invasive species on breeding islands

      Implement best practice quarantine measures at breeding colonies to reduce the risk of any invasive species (re)establishing on islands
144 Wildlife Conservation Plan for Seabirds
Species profiles

 White-fronted Tern (Sterna striata)

Life History and Distribution
The White-fronted Tern (Sterna striata) is a medium sized 'commic' tern with a long straight slender bill and a very long, deeply forked tail. It is the largest and bulkiest commic tern, proportionally similar to Common Tern (S. hirundo). The species is endemic to Australasia, breeding on the North and South Island of New Zealand, Stewart Island, the Chatham, Auckland and Snares Islands off the coast of New Zealand, and Flinders and Cape Barren Island off the north-east of Tasmania. It is also a winter visitor to Australia, from south