The great skua or bonxie is the top aerial predator of UK seabird colonies, and its welfare and population reflects the health of the entire seabird ecosystem.
Great skua welfare at the apex of the seabird food web reflects the overall health of northern seas. Reduction in fish offal from improved fisheries regulations has reduced food availability. Climate change reducing sand eel abundance is a long-term welfare threat. Disturbance at colonies by walkers and tourists causes breeding failures.