Description: The project successfully increased baseline data collection and assessed the threat status of the Manx Shearwater (Puffinus puffinus, LC). Significant results include recording 6,100 hours of Autonomous Recording Unit (ARU) monitoring during the breeding season, confirming species presence in valleys after forest fires, and installing artificial nests to encourage breeding. Despite no immediate evidence of visits, plans are underway to install more nests in the next breeding season. Camera monitoring revealed high densities of rats but no bird activity, prompting plans for a predator control programme. Thermal binoculars identified potential nesting areas, and a trained dog assisted in covering inaccessible breeding areas. The project contributed to filling knowledge gaps in Macaronesia archipelagos regarding breeding biology and species distribution, engaging stakeholders such as the regional government, military, companies, and researchers. An action plan for the Macaronesia region was developed based on project results, with collaborative research efforts involving partners from the University of Barcelona and the University of Oxford. Lessons learned include addressing weather challenges, recognising the importance of tools like thermal or infrared binoculars, and considering future activities such as GPS tracking of birds at sea to improve breeding ground identification.
Duration: 14 months
