Actions to protect some of Scotland’s most vulnerable marine species are being consulted on by the Scottish Government.
Climate change, invasive non-native species such as brown rat, food shortages and other pressures are contributing to the dramatic declines seen in seabird numbers.
The most comprehensive seabird census to date, Seabirds Count, published last year and led by JNCC with over 20 steering group partners, found that almost two-thirds of Scotland’s seabird species have declined over the last 20 years. Eight of those species, including the Arctic tern, kittiwake and black-headed gull, have declined by more than 50%.
The draft Scottish Seabird Conservation Action Plan has been developed to protect Scotland’s seabird species for future generations.
Developed in partnership with NatureScot, JNCC, Royal Society for the Protection of Birds and British Trust for Ornithology, the plan sets out over 50 actions, including:
- Enhancing food availability by improving conditions for prey
- Providing safe nesting areas by eradicating non-native invasive predators
- Increasing survival prospects by minimising bycatch
- Key research and monitoring of Scottish Seabirds
- Promoting awareness and international engagement by working in partnership with local and international communities, marine and coastal sectors, and environmental organisations.
Scottish Government are now seeking input into the plan through consultation, which can be found on the Scottish Government website.