Fulmars also ingest plastic particles floating in the seas and oceans, presumably confusing them with food. Unlike most other seabirds, fulmars may not regurgitate plastic particles but can accumulate and retain them for many months or years. The content of plastic particles in the stomachs of fulmars may therefore be used as an indicator for man-made plastics that pollute the sea.
Plastic particles in seabirds and other marine animals may reduce their ability to process food and this leads to a deterioration of their body condition.
Management measures should reduce the sources of plastics, including land-based waste-disposal, ships’ garbage and coastal litter.