Conservation
Conservation Efforts
Seabird conservation has real successes. The methods that work are well understood. The challenge is applying them widely enough.
Removing invasive predators
Rats, cats and other introduced animals devastate seabird colonies on islands. Eradication projects have now cleared many islands. South Georgia in the South Atlantic was declared rat-free in 2018, after one of the largest eradications ever attempted.
Bringing seabirds back
Social attraction uses decoys, mirrors and recorded calls to persuade seabirds to nest in safe places. Project Puffin restored Atlantic puffins to Eastern Egg Rock in Maine in this way, starting in 1973. The method has since been used around the world.
Safer fishing
Simple changes save many birds on longline fishing boats. These include bird-scaring lines, setting hooks at night and adding weight so baited hooks sink quickly.
Protected areas
Marine protected areas and protected islands safeguard breeding and feeding grounds. Tracking data increasingly guides where these areas are placed.
Get involved
Involved in seabird conservation, or want to be? Share your project or ask how to help.