Norway"s seabird population decline documented in stark before and after photos
- Rob Barrett's surveys in the 1970s showed abundant kittiwakes in Norway's seabird colonies.
- Recent photographs reveal a dramatic decline, with almost 90% of mainland kittiwakes disappearing over four decades.
- The project aims to raise awareness about seabird population declines and the need for conservation efforts.
In the mid-1970s, seabird researcher Rob Barrett conducted a survey of one of Norway's largest seabird colonies, observing an abundance of kittiwakes. However, a recent survey in 2023 revealed a stark contrast, with almost no birds present. This decline represents a broader trend, as nearly 90% of Norway's mainland kittiwakes have vanished over the past four decades, mirroring a global decline of 70% in seabird populations from 1950 to 2010. The reasons for this decline are multifaceted, including pollution, shipping activities, and increased tourism, which have all contributed to the degradation of seabird habitats. Signe Christensen-Dalsgaard, a seabird ecologist, initiated a photography project to visually document these changes, inspired by similar projects showcasing retreating glaciers. The project aims to raise awareness about the critical state of seabird populations and the need for conservation efforts. The stark before-and-after images serve as a powerful reminder of the ecological shifts that have occurred and the urgent need to address the factors contributing to these declines. The emotional impact of witnessing such changes has led researchers to reflect on their work and the importance of striving for a healthier environment for seabirds and other wildlife.