Island Biosecurity
What is Biosecurity?
Biosecurity is the practice of protecting places from the threats posed by the introduction of new diseases, plants, or animals that do not naturally occur there.
Many islands around the world are completely free from land predators. If invasive predators are introduced (like rats, mice, and mink) they can multiply quickly and pose a major threat to seabirds by feeding on eggs, chicks, and sometimes adult birds.
Invasive plants can also cause huge problems for seabirds and other native species. On the island of Craigleith, puffin numbers crashed from around 5000 pairs to less than a thousand, due to a giant invasive plant called tree mallow which grows to 3 metres in height. We work with volunteers and partners to tackle tree mallow as part of our SOS Puffin Project.
Biosecurity measures are designed to prevent the arrival of new animals, plants, and diseases to an area where they don’t belong. Biosecurity work may also include controlling invasive species if they have already been introduced.
Biosecurity on our local islands
We carry out a range of biosecurity measures on our local islands, working to keep vulnerable species and habitats safe. On the islands we look after (the Lamb, Craigleith, and Bass Rock) biosecurity measures include:
- Regular biosecurity monitoring and checks to detect the arrival of invasive predators quickly.
- The use of camera traps and other detection methods in response to reports or signs of predators.
- Supporting ‘incursion responses’ (the removal of invasive predators if they arrive on one of the islands). You can read more about this in our blogs about an incursion on Lamb island.
- Disinfecting footwear and equipment before and after island visits.
- Checking boats or bags for stowaways.
- Raising awareness of biosecurity risks and best practice with different users of the sea.
- Working closely with our Biosecurity for LIFE partners, who support organisations and communities around the UK with biosecurity education, advice and equipment.
Thank you to our brilliant volunteers, who regularly support us to undertake this work on the islands.
