Seabird Conservation
WHY IS SEABIRD CONSERVATION IMPORTANT
Seabirds are a vital part of marine ecosystems and valuable indicators of ecosystem health. Seabirds include albatrosses, puffins, murres, penguins and other birds. Whether they soar or swim, all seabirds are adapted to feed in and live near ocean waters.
seabird facts
Exciting Adaptations
Most seabirds live out their days over the open ocean and far away from humans. To survive in their environment, seabirds have evolved many unique adaptations. Two of their most exciting adaptations are their specialized feathers and a desalination system, which removes salt from seawater.
Conservation Partnerships
We work to build connections among member organizations, promote the exchange of seabird information, and unify people working on seabird-related topics around the globe. We offer a wide range of partnership opportunities that can align with your company’s corporate social responsibility program or environmental priorities. Learn more.
Threats to Seabirds
Many scientists view seabirds as sentinels of habitat health. Their lives and well-being depend on sound conditions on land and sea. However, seabirds face many threats from human activities. These include climate change, fishing, pollution, habitat loss, and disturbance.
Threats to Seabirds: Plastics
Plastic is flooding the ocean at an ever-growing speed. Around 8 million metric tons entered the sea in 2010. It is projected to increase by 2025. Plastic can harm the seabirds. Toxins carried by ingested microplastics may be absorbed into body tissues. Many of these chemicals can cause reproductive problems. Larger plastic fragments pose more significant problems, including fatal results. When eaten, they can damage internal organs or even entangle and drown wildlife.
INTERESTED IN BECOMING A MEMBER
Membership is open to anyone interested in seabird research and conservation.