Bird counts on the Farne Islands, a key sanctuary for seabirds in Northumberland, have revealed a mixed picture for wildlife this year. The focus key phrase for this report is Farne Islands seabird survey results.
The number of puffin breeding pairs has dropped by 23% over the past year, from 50,103 to 38,500, according to the National Trust. Despite the decline, conservationists caution against interpreting this as a sudden population crash, noting the impact of bird flu and recent storms that affected thousands of birds.
Ben McCarthy, head of nature conservation at the trust, said: “Although puffins were impacted by bird flu in 2022/23, they were not as impacted as other species due to their naturally self-isolating behaviour.” He highlighted that the move to annual monitoring in 2019 demonstrates the trust’s commitment to understanding and protecting puffins over the long term.
The survey also brought some positive news. Arctic tern numbers increased by more than 26%, rising from 410 to 519 nesting pairs. McCarthy emphasised the importance of considering broader global trends when assessing seabird populations. Measures to deter seals from disturbing puffin nesting areas and encouraging them to stay within their usual pupping zones were also credited with helping to protect species.
Not all species fared so well. Common tern breeding pairs halved from 10 to 5, indicating ongoing challenges for certain populations.
The Farne Islands, home to around 200,000 seabirds each year, remain a site of international significance. Conservation efforts continue to balance the needs of multiple species, ensuring that habitats are safeguarded despite natural and disease-related pressures.
While puffins have faced difficulties, their tendency to self-isolate may have mitigated the worst impacts of bird flu, giving hope for recovery in future seasons. The trust’s ongoing monitoring and protective measures aim to maintain the islands as a thriving environment for seabirds.
