Adequate sandeel as prey species for predators – breeding success of black-legged kittiwakes
The black-legged kittiwake is a seabird that depends on sandeels as the important food source. Their main breeding area is located in northern Britain.
Sandeel availability may be low because of natural reasons, or through industrial fishing that competes with seabirds. When the breeding success of kittiwake is low over a three-year period, this is likely to be triggered by low abundance of sandeel in coastal areas. Therefore, measures should be taken to reduce industrial fishing.
The aim is to maintain the availability of sandeel as prey species for various birds, fish and other animal species.
