Rare Manx Shearwaters Breed on Rathlin Island After Decades
After decades of absence, the Manx Shearwater, an amber-listed seabird species, has successfully bred on Rathlin Island in Northern Ireland. This marks a significant milestone for seabird conservation efforts on the island, offering hope for the recovery of this vulnerable species.
A Historic Return
The Manx Shearwater (Puffinus puffinus) was once abundant on Rathlin Island, part of the largest seabird colony in Northern Ireland. However, by the end of the 20th century, their breeding presence had vanished due to predation by non-native species like rats and ferrets. Now, thanks to conservation initiatives, these seabirds are making a comeback.
The LIFE Raft Project: A Turning Point
The successful breeding is attributed to the ongoing efforts of the LIFE Raft (Rathlin Acting for Tomorrow) project, a £4.5 million initiative aimed at eradicating invasive predators from the island. This project is a collaboration between RSPB Northern Ireland, the Rathlin Development and Community Association, and the Causeway Coast & Glens Heritage Trust, with funding from EU LIFE, The National Lottery Heritage Fund, the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA), and the Garfield Weston Foundation.
Evidence of Successful Breeding
Monitoring efforts by the LIFE Raft team, including night-vision technology and acoustic surveys, revealed several pairs nesting in inaccessible areas. Last month, footage captured young shearwaters preparing to fledge from their burrows, confirming successful breeding. Ric Else, senior research assistant for the LIFE Raft project, expressed his excitement, stating that the long nights spent listening and watching from the clifftops had finally paid off.
“This was exactly what I have been hoping to see for years – not just confirmation of Manx Shearwaters attempting to nest on Rathlin, but evidence that they are managing to breed successfully here." - Ric Else
Hope for the Future
The return of the Manx Shearwater to Rathlin Island is a significant victory for seabird conservation. With the ongoing efforts of the LIFE Raft project and the RSPB NI, there is optimism that the island will continue to be a safe haven for seabirds for generations to come. Liam McFaul, RSPB NI Warden for Rathlin Island Reserve, emphasized the importance of continued work to protect these vulnerable birds.
The Wider Importance of Seabird Conservation
Seabirds are facing numerous threats globally, including overfishing, climate change, plastic pollution, and habitat loss. By addressing the threat of invasive predators on Rathlin Island, the LIFE Raft project is contributing to the wider effort to protect these vital species, including Puffins, Storm Petrels, and Black Guillemots.
