UK Seabird Welfare: Breeding Colonies and Marine Threats

Overview of welfare for UK seabirds including puffins, gannets, and guillemots at breeding colonies.

Key Facts

UK seabird populations have declined significantly, with some species in crisis
Sandeel availability linked to climate change affects several seabird species welfare
Avian influenza outbreaks have caused mass seabird welfare emergencies since 2021
Marine plastic ingestion causes welfare harm and mortality in multiple seabird species
Marine protected areas help protect seabird foraging habitats and welfare

Welfare Considerations

UK seabird welfare faces multiple overlapping threats including climate-driven prey availability decline, avian influenza, marine plastic, and habitat loss. Some species including kittiwakes are in crisis with breeding failures linked to sandeel decline. The 2021-2026 avian influenza outbreaks have caused devastating welfare emergencies in breeding colonies. Marine plastics cause ingestion welfare harm. Conservation actions combining marine protected areas, climate policy, and pollution reduction are needed.

What You Can Do

Support seabird conservation organisations including RSPB Seabirds team
Reduce plastic use and support marine pollution reduction campaigns
Advocate for climate action and sustainable fisheries management for seabird prey availability