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Thousands of UK Marine Animals Die Annually
10 Jun
Summary
- Over 1,000 porpoises and dolphins die annually as bycatch.
- Seabird deaths from fishing gear estimated at 10,000 each year.
- Urgent government action is needed to mitigate fishing bycatch.
Thousands of Britain's most cherished marine wildlife, including whales, dolphins, seals, and seabirds, are being killed annually as collateral damage by fishing vessels. A comprehensive analysis of bycatch data reveals a devastating toll, with an estimated 10,000 seabirds, over 1,000 harbour porpoises and common dolphins, and 500 seals dying each year. Endangered Atlantic salmon and protected sharks, skates, and rays also fall victim.
Conservationists highlight that most of these deaths are avoidable through mitigation measures. They are urging the UK government to implement promised actions, including mandatory monitoring on all fishing vessels. While some UK fishers have successfully reduced bycatch through modern methods and adjustments like weighted creel ropes, systemic change is needed to protect marine life from being pushed closer to extinction.
The ongoing crisis of bycatch contributes to the UK failing to meet its legal obligations for good environmental status in its seas. Calls for strong bycatch action plans, strict monitoring, and enforcement are growing to address this silent, unseen crisis impacting marine ecosystems and the health of oceans.
