Nearly 50% of seabird populations are in decline (1 Viewer)

[Kits]

Article here.

Almost half of the world's seabirds have populations that are thought to be in decline, according to a new review.

The study, published in Bird Conservation International, found that 28% of species are considered to be in the highest categories of risk.

Conservationists are particularly concerned by the albatross family.

Threats to the birds include commercial fishing and damage to breeding colonies caused by rats and other invasive species.

Seabirds make up just a small proportion (3.5%) of the world's bird species. But researchers say they are an important indicator of the health of the oceans.

The review, carried out by BirdLife International, found that of 346 species, 47% are known or suspected to be in decline.

It says that seabirds are now more threatened than any other group of birds.

Worrying times.

 

[Richard Klim]

Unfortunately, the thread title invites the glass half empty or half full comparison.

It could equally be phrased: "More than 50% of seabird populations are stable or increasing".

 

[Kits]

True. I based the title on the information in the article. Personally, while I am glad that more than 50% are fine, I do feel concern that nearly half are in decline.

 

[Richard Klim]

Personally, while I am glad that more than 50% are fine, I do feel concern that nearly half are in decline.

Me too - many seabird species are seriously threatened. Sorry Kits, I was just being mischievous (as usual).

 

[Kits]

S'okay!