Image: Puffin flying by Phil Robson

Scotland’s seabirds are set to benefit from a major new funding initiative aimed at reversing decades of population decline. The Scottish Marine Environmental Enhancement Fund (SMEEF) has unveiled a £1.6 million Seabird Resilience Fund, designed to bolster efforts to protect and restore vital seabird habitats across Scotland’s coastlines and islands.

Backed by voluntary contributions from nine offshore wind energy developers, the fund will support practical conservation work targeting threats such as invasive species, habitat degradation, and the impacts of climate change. The fund arrives as seabird populations across Scotland continue to face immense pressure. Since 1986, coastal breeding bird numbers have plummeted by nearly 50%, with factors like reduced food availability and warming seas contributing to the crisis.

Despite this long-term decline, recent data offers a glimmer of hope. Some species—including the black-legged kittiwake, European shag, and common guillemot—have shown signs of short-term recovery. The new fund aims to build on these positive trends, enabling direct intervention to help seabird populations recover and build long-term resilience.

Scotland plays a crucial role in global seabird conservation, with 24 species nesting regularly along its coasts. The country hosts approximately 60% of the world’s great skua population, 46% of northern gannets, and 16% of Manx shearwaters. Conservationists hope the new fund can make a meaningful impact not just nationally, but on the international stage.

Initial investment from the Seabird Resilience Fund will go toward biosecurity surveys on key island habitats during the 2025 season. These islands are especially vulnerable to non-native predators like rats and invasive plants, which can devastate seabird nesting sites. Further funding opportunities are expected to open following developmental work over the summer.

NatureScot, which hosts SMEEF, is leading the initiative. Cathy Tilbrook, Head of Sustainable Coasts and Seas at NatureScot, emphasised the significance of the investment:

“This fund comes at a critical juncture. While the threats are severe, the signs of population stabilisation offer a reason for cautious optimism. We’re committed to supporting projects that give these iconic species a fighting chance to thrive.”