Surveys

SURVEYS Since 1971, there have been regular seabird population surveys of Lunga, the main island of the Treshnish group. Since 1994 these surveys have been undertaken every year, with many of the outlying islands also surveyed on occasion. Data from the population counts contribute to the Joint Nature Conservation Committee (JNCC) Seabird Monitoring Programme, which provides an annual national index of the fortunes of seabird species in the British Isles. On a more local basis, they also inform the Hebridean Trust’s decisions as to management of the islands. The annual core survey is the first priority of the expedition, and will be performed in spite of any difficulties of weather and tide conditions. Other survey work is then factored in alongside the ringing studies. Our ongoing aims in relation to the seabird survey work are: · Perform all periodic national seabird counts, etc. as advised by JNCC and British Trust for Ornithology; · Continue to refine and standardise survey techniques, count area definition, observer skills and effort; · Develop methods and logistics for “difficult” species and isolated parts of the island group; · Monitor seabird numbers in relation to visitor pressure and management policies; and, · Monitoring of invasive mammalian predators. In addition, observations during our visits concerning general bird populations are made and incorporated in the annual report, which is supplied to all partners and interested parties. Copies of all our reports can be downloaded from here. Validated records of other taxa/phyla as available, with especial reference to higher plants, Lepidoptera (moths and butterflies), dragonflies, mammals and cetaceans (whales, dolphins and porpoises), are also included in the annual report.