Seabird conservation helped by computer tracking model

[Fern Davies]

BBC News

A computer model which predicts the foraging habits of seabirds could be crucial in protecting British wildlife.

The model was originally designed to predict the movements of gannets. But researchers at Plymouth University in Devon believe the same technique can be used to track other smaller seabird species. Conservationists will be able to use data to create accurate Marine Protection Areas (MPAs) to guard feeding grounds and seabird hot spots. The government wants to establish a network of MPAs to protect marine ecosystems from human activities such as fishing to try to halt the decline in seabird populations.

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