PUFFINS ARE BACK AFTER FISHING BAN
But experts say more must be done to save at-risk birds
PUFFINS are returning to Scotland’s shores for the summer season for the first time since a landmark ban on sandeel fishing.
The prohibition on industrial fishing for sandeel – a vital food source for puffins and other seabirds – has been hailed by conservationists.
But experts have warned more must be done to save the at-threat species, known as “the clown of the sea”, amid alarming declines.
Three-quarters of the UK’s puffins are based in Scots breeding colonies. But the population has fallen by a third here since 2000.
RSPB Scotland said the “sight of these remarkable creatures returning is a wonderful occasion for all to celebrate, signalling the start of a new nesting season”.
Puffins have already been delighting visitors across Scotland in recent weeks, with the charity’s Sumburgh Head nature reserve one of the first sites to welcome them back.
Helen McLachlan, RSPB Scotland’s Head of Marine Policy, said: “It’s always a joy to see puffins return to our coastlines each spring. While we welcome sandeel fishery closures, it’s important to look at this within the context of broader concerns for seabirds.
“Puffins and other seabirds continue to suffer serious declines in the face of threats such as climate change, invasive non-native predators, and human activities including offshore developments and fisheries.
“To that end, we are urging the Scottish Government to develop and introduce a strong Seabird Conservation Strategy that will turn around the devastating declines we are currently witnessing across 70 per cent of our seabird populations.
“It is our hope that these measures will mean healthier seas for puffins and our other amazing seabirds, so we can enjoy them long into the future.”
Tens of thousands called for an end to the fishing of sandeels in UK waters last year. Their number has fallen due to climate change and overfishing.
The Scottish Government’s closure of sandeel fisheries in January coincided with the UK Government’s decision for the English North Sea.
Healthier seas mean we’ll enjoy puffins long into future helen mclachlan head of marine policy