Seabird Bycatch Studies

Fisheries are important sources of employment, nutrition, and cultural value for communities around the globe. The impacts of fisheries in the marine environment extend beyond the target species, and affect the larger ecosystems where they occur. Seabirds and other non-target species such as marine mammals, turtles, and rays can accidentally be caught in fishing gear. This is called fisheries bycatch. Fisheries bycatch represents one of the greatest threats to seabird abundances worldwide, in addition to invasive species and climate change. Over 60% of seabird species have documented bycatch interactions and an estimated 180 million seabirds are currently exposed to the threat.

Oikonos works with governments, fishers, and collaborative partners to understand the impact of fisheries bycatch on marine predators, and support policies and solutions that benefit both fishers and impacted species. We aim to maximize the value of seabirds caught as bycatch through scientific examinations that document patterns of fisheries-associated mortalities. To understand how fisheries impact the larger seabird populations, we use genetic tools to connect at-sea mortalities to island colonies. Such examinations also give important insight into plastic and contaminants loads, life-history traits, and seabird ecology.

Partners and Funders:

Our projects are supported by NOAA’s National Seabird Program, the Alaska Fisheries Science Center, the North Pacific Observer Program, North Pacific Research Board, Revive and Restore, and many other generous individuals and institutions. Our many partners include NOAA Pacific Islands Observer Program, Northwest and Southwest Fisheries Science Centers, and Chile’s Insituto de Fomento Pesquero.