Home / Environment / Rare Seabird Spotted Nesting on Rathlin Island After Decades
Rare Seabird Spotted Nesting on Rathlin Island After Decades
1 Oct, 2025
Summary
- Manx shearwaters, an amber-listed species, spotted breeding on Rathlin Island
- Successful nesting confirmed after decades of absence on the island
- £45 million initiative launched to protect vulnerable birds on Rathlin Island
In a remarkable conservation success, Manx shearwaters, a rare seabird, have been spotted breeding on Rathlin Island for the first time in decades. Rathlin Island, home to Northern Ireland's largest seabird colony, had not seen confirmed nesting of the Manx shearwater by the end of the 20th century.
However, recent efforts have paid off, with researchers now confirming the successful breeding of the Manx shearwater on the island. Ric Else, a senior research assistant for the LIFE Raft project, expressed his delight at the sighting, stating that it was exactly what he had been hoping to see for years.
To further protect the island's vulnerable seabird population, a £45 million initiative has been launched. The project aims to remove non-native rats and ferrets from Rathlin Island, which will benefit the burrow-nesting Manx shearwaters, as well as other species like puffins and black guillemots. Liam McFaul, the RSPB NI warden for Rathlin Island Reserve, emphasized the importance of this work in making the island a safe space for seabirds to inhabit and breed successfully.
