In what ways does bycatch from fishing gear affect different bird species around Mallorca?

Bycatch from fishing gear is a significant threat to various bird species around Mallorca, particularly seabirds that rely on the Mediterranean’s rich coastal waters for feeding. Fishing nets, longlines, and traps often unintentionally capture birds such as shearwaters, gulls, and cormorants. These birds are attracted to the fish and bait used by fishermen, which unfortunately leads them into dangerous encounters with fishing equipment. Once entangled or hooked, many birds suffer injuries or drown, unable to free themselves from the gear.

The impact of bycatch in this region is particularly notable for species like the Balearic shearwater, a local endemic and critically endangered bird. The loss of individuals through bycatch can have severe consequences on their populations, which are already vulnerable due to habitat loss and pollution. Additionally, lesser-seen species often fall victim to this issue, gradually reducing biodiversity along Mallorca’s coasts.

Efforts to mitigate bycatch include the implementation of bird-friendly fishing practices and the promotion of gear modifications that reduce the chances of snagging birds. Education and cooperation among local fishermen are crucial in protecting these seabird populations, ensuring that fishing activities can coexist sustainably with the island’s natural wildlife. Monitoring and research are ongoing to better understand the full extent of bycatch effects, aiming to establish long-term strategies that preserve both the marine ecosystem and the birds that depend on it.