Extinction risk for albatross, scientists warn

High death rates and slow breeding of the antipodean wandering albatross mean the species could die out.

The bird’s current rate of survival is ‘‘unsustainable’’, according to a report by the Department of Conservation, and the high number of deaths was likely linked to longline fishing – a mechanism used by deep-sea fishers which is heavy, long and carries a large number of baited hooks.

The report pointed to the tracking of 16 birds last year, two of which died before their return to land. One died as a result of fishing activity and the other crossed paths with a vessel at the time the bird’s satellite connection was lost.

Females of the species had declined at a faster rate than males.

Now there are more than two adult males for every adult female, with the population of breeding females 42 per cent of the 2004 level.

‘‘The population will not stop declining until female survivorship increases.’’

The report noted problems ensuring tracking devices were functional and remained attached to the birds, so further tracking was needed to understand the ‘‘scale of interaction between birds and fishing fleets’’.

However, the report concluded initial satellite tracking results suggested bird deaths linked to fisheries’ bycatch was a consistent explanation for the low survival rate of the female albatross.

Forest & Bird seabird advocate Sue Maturin said there was great cause for concern over the continued and rapid decline of this endemic bird, which had the same endangered status as the ka¯ ka¯ po¯ .

‘‘Scientists are predicting they could become functionally extinct within 20 to 30 years.’’

The Government has reviewed its national plan of action for seabirds and is asking for feedback by 5pm on Monday, January 27.