Independent foraging by captive-reared and released juvenile tara iti (New Zealand fairy tern, Sternula nereis davisae)

Understanding the progression to foraging independence in captive-reared tara iti (New Zealand fairy tern, Sternula nereis davisae) is vital for improving release strategies for this critically endangered taxon. We present the first detailed account of post-fledging foraging milestones for 12 captive-reared juveniles that were released during the 2023-24 and 2024-25 breeding seasons. Observations revealed a predictable sequence of behavioural development: fledging beyond the release pen occurred