Take a walk along Chesil Beach on a sunny June day and you will often hear the birds before you see them. A high‑pitched, repetitive chatter gives away the presence of a little tern hovering above the shingle. These rare, delicate seabirds make the long journey from West Africa to breed here on Chesil—the only little tern colony in the south‑west—and by June the first chicks should already be tottering across the stones.
Sharing the beach with them are ringed plovers, dumpy little waders perfectly camouflaged against the shingle. When they settle onto their eggs—laid in nothing more than a shallow scrape—they almost vanish from sight. Nearby, the unmistakable oystercatcher, bold in black and white with a long red bill, patrols the colony. Fiercely protective, they chase off crows, gulls and even kestrels that drift overhead in search of an easy meal.
Although spring migration has usually peaked by June, Chesil still has surprises in store. Non‑breeding waders such as knot, ruff, grey plover and redshank may already be heading south again, pausing on the Fleet’s mudflats to feed. The little tern colony often attracts unusual visitors too—black terns sometimes drop in, having already finished breeding elsewhere.
And then there are the unexpected moments that make Chesil so special. Last June, a honey buzzard was spotted resting on the shingle, gathering strength before continuing its journey. Even smaller wonders appear: in early June 2023, a red‑necked phalarope delighted visitors near the centre for two days. These colourful Arctic waders are famously tame, unbothered by people, and—unusually in the bird world—the males take on all the chick‑rearing duties.
Chesil is also a place to learn, explore and get closer to wildlife through the events and activities at the Wild Chesil Centre. Throughout the year, the centre hosts guided walks, family wildlife sessions, bird‑watching and hands‑on marine activities that bring the Fleet Lagoon and its species to life. One of the most popular experiences is the Fleet Explorer, a boat trip that takes visitors onto the lagoon itself. From the water you can watch terns fishing, glimpse waders along the shoreline and learn about the unique ecology of this internationally important habitat—all with expert commentary from Dorset Wildlife Trust staff and volunteers.
Chesil is a place where anything can happen, and the best way to experience it is simply to spend time here, watching the shorelines, the sky and the shingle come alive. The Wild Chesil Centre makes the perfect starting point, with friendly staff, wildlife information and views straight across the Fleet. Whether you’re a seasoned birder or just curious about Dorset’s coast, Chesil in summer is unforgettable.
Begin your visit at the Wild Chesil Centre:
