Protect Seabirds in the Caribbean

"How many seabird eggs would you estimate you collect in a year?" This was one of the various questions posed by a team of researchers from the countries of Grenada and St. Vincent and the Grenadines, who visited nearby fishing villages this month.

The organization SusGren, with support from BirdsCaribbean, has partnered with EPIC to lead a very important study on the economic and cultural value of seabirds and their eggs to fishermen and others who harvest wildlife.

There was a wide range of responses to the various questions asked during the survey. Some respondents described how good seabirds taste and how many had been harvested while others appreciated efforts to protect seabirds because they follow the birds to find good fishing spots. Data from this research is currently being analyzed and we look forward to sharing the final results of this groundbreaking study.

Our research and conservation efforts will be guided by scientific inquiry such as this economic survey to ensure that all aspects of the issue of seabird harvesting are considered.

You'll find the greatest number of Caribbean seabirds nesting during the summer months, when birds like gulls and terns migrate back to their offshore island colonies. This will be the project's main period for training residents in monitoring and outreach efforts as we work to protect offshore refuges, some of the last remaining nesting areas for many species. We are already identifying partners in the region who will take on the role of volunteer wardens and can't wait to get started!

Your support for Caribbean seabird conservation makes it possible for activities such as this to continue. We hope you share our excitement about this most recent work as well as all that will be accomplished in the coming year. From EPIC and from the birds....thank you for showing you care for seabirds and their island refuges.