Conservation and population status of albatrosses and giant petrels on Macquarie Island

Project aim

Across the Southern Ocean populations of albatrosses and giant petrels have declined as a result of interactions with fishing operations. In 2003 it was estimated that around 250,000 albatrosses and petrels have been killed on longlines in the Southern Hemisphere in the last three years alone. Seabirds on Macquarie Island are no exception. In Tasmania the survival of all four albatross species and the two giant petrel species breeding on Macquarie Island is threatened (Endangered – Wandering albatross, Grey-headed albatross, Black-browed albatross; Vulnerable – light mantled albatross, Southern Giant Petrel; Rare – Northern Giant Petrel). Ongoing monitoring of their population numbers and survival rates is essential in order to assess their conservation status and identify any influences that may be impacting upon them. This program seeks to continue a long term monitoring program of albatrosses and giant petrels on Macquarie Island through counts and banding of the birds. Long term, studies are required to obtain reliable information on population size and productivity, adult and juvenile survival rates, and age- and sex-related effects on reproductive performance and survival. The oceanic movements of the birds (assessed via satellite tracking) will be investigated so that questions regarding temporal and spatial overlap with fishing operations can be addressed. With this knowledge we will be well placed to identify the factors impacting on the vulnerable populations and be in a position to provide appropriate input into management protocols. All aspects of this program have been identified as priority actions in the Albatross and Giant Petrel Recovery Plan (Environment Anstralia 2001).