The main threat facing Roseate Terns is predation. On their breeding ground, Roseate Tern adults and chicks are depredated by both birds and mammals and recruitment at colonies in Canada has been hindered by predation. Their main predators include Great Black-backed and Herring Gulls, American Crows, raptors including owls, and American mink. Pipping eggs and newly hatched chicks may also be vulnerable to ant predation.

Other threats facing Roseate Terns include competition with gulls for nest sites, heavy metals such as mercury, shortage of males, habitat loss and human disturbance.

To know how you can help reduce human disturbance visit the
"How You Can Help" section.