A two-year study reveals that basic deterrents like bird-shaped kites and floating scarecrows could significantly reduce the number of razorbills and guillemots drowning in fishing nets. These endangered seabirds are frequently caught in nets along European coasts, with tens of thousands estimated to die annually from accidental entanglement. Researchers are testing low-cost, non-invasive methods to protect the birds while allowing fishing operations to continue. The findings suggest simple solutions may offer an effective way to curb this preventable threat to vulnerable marine species.
Simple deterrents can slash the number of razorbills and guillemots being trapped underwater, two-year study showsBird-shaped kites and a floating scarecrow are being tested to try to stop endangered seabirds drowning in fishing nets.Every year an estimated 95,000 diving birds, including razorbills and guillemots, are accidentally caught in nets off European coasts. Continue reading...
