Keedwell et al. (2002): Causes of mortality of black-fronted terns (Sterna albostriata) in the Ohau River.

Keedwell, R.J., Sanders, M.D., Alley, M., & Twentyman, C. 2002. Causes of mortality of black-fronted terns (Sterna albostriata) in the Ohau River, South Island, New Zealand. Pacific Conservation Biology 8: 170–176.

The carcasses of 148 Black-fronted terns Sterna albostriata found during the 1998–2000 breeding seasons on the Ohau River were examined to determine causes of mortality. Predation was the primary cause of mortality of adults, juveniles and chicks, resulting in 47% of all deaths. Feral cats Felis catus, Norway rats Rattus norvegicus and, to a lesser extent, stoats Mustela erminea were the main predators responsible. The prey remains left by the different predator species are described. Predators are potentially the main cause of population decline in black- fronted terns and predator control during the breeding season should be trialled.