Common Tern with fish. Photo by Marie Jordan.

Stratton Island is special! It is York County’s most northerly island and is the only island managed by Project Puffin in York County for tern survival. YCAS visited the island July 31 and six participants enjoyed spectacular looks at Common, Roseate, Least and Arctic Terns. The magic of being on an island dominated by tern sounds versus the busy sounds of summer cannot be given enough press. What a respite from the mainland!

Arctic and Roseate Terns. Photo by Marie Jordan.

Our Birding Challenge contributions to Project Puffin made this field trip possible. Thanks to all who contributed as well as the island researchers who made difficult logistics work. Thanks also to the masses of migrating shorebirds and the grunts of the Harbor Seals — all part of the specialness of Stratton Island.