New Zealand's critically endangered Tara iti experienced a record-breaking summer breeding season, resulting in 13 fledglings.

New Zealand's critically endangered Tara iti or New Zealand fairy tern has experienced a record-breaking summer breeding season, with 22 eggs laid resulting in 18 hatchlings and 13 fledglings. Favorable weather conditions and advancements in management practices, including predator control initiatives, contributed to this significant milestone for the species. The hand-rearing strategy by Auckland Zoo aims to bolster the wild population numbers in the future.