Protected rare seabird haven on the Isles of Scilly set to expand
The government decision is expected to benefit around 15,000 birds and the recovery of certain species.
Last updated 17th Nov 2020
Thousands of rare seabirds will be better protected thanks to the expansion of a haven on the Isles of Scilly, by around 12,930 hectares.
The area is home to some of the UK's rarest species including the Manx Shearwater and storm petrel.
The site will encourage the growth and recovery of the storm petrel and lesser black-backed gull.
It will also provide new protections for the European shag and the great black-backed gull.
“The UK seabird population is of global importance with the UK holding more than a quarter of Europe’s breeding seabirds. The expansion of this site demonstrates our ongoing commitment to protect and improve the resilience of our marine environment and precious wildlife.
“Together with the development of our Seabird Conservation Strategy, we will help the coastal environment to recover and thrive for future generations to enjoy.”
Environment Minister Rebecca Pow
“The Isles of Scilly is one of the most important areas for breeding seabirds in England and their continued presence is important to the sense of place for the local community and visitors.
“These inshore waters are just as important to protecting breeding seabirds as the nesting sites themselves. Natural England’s public consultation on the proposals for this site enabled the local community to understand the evidence collected, the importance and implications of the designation.
“Today’s announcement secures greater protection for thousands of seabirds and is a positive step forward as we continue to protect and enhance Britain’s sea and shorebirds.”
Kate Sugar, Marine Lead Adviser at Natural England
With the expansion of the Isles of Scilly site into the coastal seas around the archipelago, there are now 114 Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) specifically protecting birds across the UK.
The newly-expanded site protects the waters around the islands for activities like feeding and preening that are crucial to the life cycles of over 15,000 seabirds.
This MPA forms part of the UK’s ‘Blue Belt’ in helping to boost resilience to man-made pressures, as well as providing space to help species adapt to the impacts of climate change.