Intentional take of seabirds for human consumption: a global review to inform conservation and policy needs for migratory species

Addressing the threat posed by the exploitation of migratory species is challenging because many move across national boundaries. To inform directions to tackle this threat for migratory species in the most threatened group of birds, seabirds, we conducted a global literature review to evaluate the scale and drivers of intentional take of migratory seabirds (318 of 365 species). The review follows the recent recognition that “hunting and trapping” is the fourth biggest threat to seabirds, and that the nature and severity of seabird take are poorly understood. We investigated reported population impacts, any reporting, management or enforcement measures in place, and any health risks associated with consuming seabirds. Across at least 56 countries/territories, 105 migratory species are subject to take, with adults and eggs taken most. The majority of documented take is legal or of unknown legal status and is conducted by Indigenous Peoples and local communities (IPLC) for subsistence. Illegal take was primarily associated with poachers and fishers. A minority of records included data on the number of birds taken or the presence of management or enforcement mechanisms. While seldom documented, some seabird populations subject to take are in decline or have been extirpated. Human health risks were typically associated with IPLCs consuming seabirds with heavy metals. Similarly for other migratory species, key knowledge and governance gaps to understand and manage seabird take include review of species action plans, listing of species on appendices of international agreements, co-management of harvest sites, and improving monitoring to facilitate evidence-based conservation action. • Take of seabirds for human consumption is widespread, occurring globally. • Majority of records of seabird take were of legal or of unknown legal status. • Heavy metal poisoning is the most commonly identified risk from consuming seabirds. • Major knowledge gaps persist to inform evidence-based conservation strategies.