Estimating seabird population responses to bycatch mitigation in UK fisheries

• Main Authors: 3rd World Seabird Conference 2021, Miles, James
• Format: Article in Journal/Newspaper
• Language: unknown
• Published: Underline Science Inc. 2021
• Subjects: Environmental Sustainability; Fulmar; Northern Fulmar
• Online Access: https://dx.doi.org/10.48448/qj01-hn92; https://underline.io/lecture/34676-estimating-seabird-population-responses-to-bycatch-mitigation-in-uk-fisheries

Abstract: The first preliminary estimates of seabird bycatch mortality from certain fishing gears of the UK-registered fishing fleet in UK and adjacent waters (Northridge et al., 2020) suggest considerable mortalities for some species. Here we present the results of a Population Viability Analysis (Miles at al., 2020) that estimates the relative population gains that UK seabirds could theoretically achieve if these estimated levels of mortality were to be eliminated by bycatch mitigation measures (and assuming no other pressures are operating). Preliminary results indicate that bycatch mitigation would benefit great cormorant and northern fulmar the most, resulting in a population increase after 25 years of approximately 2% and 7%, respectively (assuming a density-dependent response in growth rate with increased population size). Regional breakdowns identified potentially even greater gains. As part of international efforts, we summarise work undertaken by the UK fishing industry, in partnership with governments and scientists, to reduce bycatch. We conclude by exploring evidence gaps, related challenges and potential solutions. Authors: James Miles¹, Matt Parsons², Catharine Horswill³ ¹University of Southampton, ²Joint Nature Conservation Committee, ³ZSL Institute of Zoology and University College London