IDC has resumed the distribution of sooty tern eggs to members of the public, following a five-year pause. Collection began on 25 April 2026 on Grande Ile, Cosmoledo, under a quota of 350,000 individual eggs approved by the Department of Environment.

Public orders were opened by IDC, with individuals invited to submit their requests by email or letter. Demand proved significantly higher than anticipated, prompting IDC to bring the closing date for orders forward from 15 June to 3 June 2026. To allow the available supply to reach as many people as possible, each person who placed an order was allocated one tray of eggs.

The resumption of distribution follows a five-year ban on the collection of birds’ eggs linked to concerns over the declining sooty tern population. This year’s collection was therefore undertaken within the strict quota authorised by the Department of Environment.

Distribution to members of the public began in June, marking the return of a long-standing seasonal tradition associated with outer islands of Seychelles.