An A Rocha Netherlands group based in the Medieval town of Zwolle has successfully used artificial nesting rafts – or breeding floats – to encourage Black Terns back to the Schellerwade, an old tributary of the IJssel river where they used to breed many years ago. The Black Tern Chlidonias niger spp. niger is recorded as Endangered. There used to be 20,000 pairs, but by 2017 there were only 1,300. 

Now the birds have claimed the breeding floats to create their nests. From the nearby dyke, passing cyclists enjoy the terns’ regular comings and goings. The project in Zwolle continues to grow and develop. With volunteers the team have built otter holes (hiding places for the otter), trimmed willows, made rills (small streams), worked in the floodplains and around a care farm, on country estates and in nature reserves.

This work contributes to diversity for animals and landscapes. It’s also another way to seek out the outdoors, marvel and share knowledge. There are community walks, cycling and canoe trips, and nature work mornings for families. The team provide themed packs, sermons and presentations for churches. 

Find out about the A Rocha Netherlands children’s environmental education project Eco-Girl