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By Helene Jessop, Conservation Assistant, South West The RSPB has written a piece for The Ecologist on the recent PIB seabird incident and our call for change. We’ve set out a five-point plan of what we think needs to happen, so that further tragic incidents are prevented. To recall, between...

Our work in the ATF generally brings us into close contact with the community, without which we would not be able to explain the phenomenon of seabird bycatch and our mission to reduce the impact on vulnerable species (see here for an example ). During these activities we always share our experiences...

This has been a significant week for our marine environment. Yesterday MEPs voted on the future of the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP). We are delighted that they overwhelmingly voted in favour of the proposed reforms. We believe the reform will pave the way to the restoration of fish stocks, a healthier...

The Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) have given us the following update about the sticky man-made mineral oil that has been such a disaster for so many seabirds: “The analysis of the material affecting seabirds along the south coast of England has shown that it is a mineral oil. The material...

The above map shows the approximate locations of birds found affected by the sticky mineral oil, with the hotspot at Portland/Ferrybridge/east end of Chesil highlighted by the red star. Only locations are shown; there is no attempt to show numbers of birds reported from the various locations, but it...

Today the RSPCA at West Hatch reported that they have now received a total of 301 live casualties: 280 guillemots 21 razorbills Of these, 39 could not be saved, the remainder are still in care. Efforts are concentrated on rescuing live birds, but the RSPCA have also collected approximately...

We have some latest news from the RSPCA at West Hatch wildlife centre. RSPCA inspectors are continuing to rescue sea birds covered in the man made sticky mineral oil. The total number of birds at the centre is: 236 guillimots 1 herring gull 17 razor bills. The vast majority were...

RSPCA We are continuing to receive reports of seabirds covered in a sticky wax-like substance being sighted off, or washed up on the South and South West coasts of England. The situation is still far from clear, but here is what we know so far: What is the sticky substance, and where has it...

Hundreds of seabirds continue to be washed up along the south coast of England covered in an unidentified sticky waxy substance. They are mostly guillemots, and have been discovered on beaches from Hampshire to Cornwall. Many have been found distressed but fortunately alive, but sadly this morning we...