A method for trapping both parents of Whiskered Terns (Chlidonias hybrida), a semi-precocial species, using enclosures that allow access to the chicks until they fledge is described. The approach combines the gradual installation of enclosures with their subsequent, temporary conversion into traps used to capture adult birds. The success rate for trapping both mates on the target nests (n = 83) was 77%. Nest desertions after the erection of the enclosure and after trapping were 1% and 3%, respectively. A high effectiveness of trapping both parents and a low percentage of losses can be achieved with the gradual installation of the enclosure and the birds' habituation to it. This trapping technique is safe and efficient, enabling researchers to collect samples from all family members with ease.