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Breeding Ecology of the Endangered Black-Bellied Tern (Sterna acuticauda) in Eastern India and Implications for Conservation

Abstract. The global population of Black-bellied Tern (Sterna acuticauda) is declining, and insufficient information is available on its breeding ecology. The aim of this study was to record its breeding ecology and factors affecting breeding success along the Mahanadi River in Odisha, eastern India. Breeding was observed during January-April 2018, with peak activity in March. Among 24 nests recorded on seven sandy islands, only 11 nests successfully produced chicks. Factors affecting survival of nests were flooding due to anthropogenic changes in water levels (54%), predation (31%), and trampling (15%). Dredging of canals that use water from the river is recommended to reduce fluctuations in water levels. Targeted long-term studies along the entire length of the Mahanadi River and other large rivers can aid in identifying other breeding sites and ongoing threats to this rare and endangered species. Outreach in communities near breeding sites and recruiting of local residents as nest guardians can also help in protection of nesting sites.