Floating scarecrows tested to protect seabirds from fishing nets

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 1 Oct, 08:19 · Archive

Bird-shaped kites and floating scarecrows are being tested off Cornwall to stop seabirds drowning in fishing nets.

Bird-shaped kites and floating scarecrows, also known as Looming Eye Buoys, are being tested off the Cornish coast to prevent endangered seabirds such as razorbills and guillemots from being accidentally caught in fishing nets. A two-year study shows the simple deterrents can significantly reduce the number of diving birds trapped underwater. An estimated 95,000 diving birds are accidentally caught in nets off European coasts annually.

How it is being reported

• Beware the giant googly eyes! Scientists deploy 'floating scarecrows' off the coast of Cornwall to deter seagullsDaily Mail · 1 Oct, 01:42
• Floating scarecrows: how Cornish fishers are stopping seabirds drowning in their netsThe Guardian · 1 Oct, 00:01

In this story: Cornwall · Europe

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